From science to solstice: 13 things to see, know, and do this week in Czechia

Airlines have suspended all flights between Prague and Tel Aviv through the weekend due to escalating conflict between Israel and Iran. Ben Gurion Airport remains closed until further notice. Prague Airport confirmed that most Sunday flights have also been canceled, with only a few El Al connections not yet officially dropped.

Expect delays around I.P. Pavlova, Muzeum, and Vinohradská as construction starts on new tram lines this week. The project marks the return of trams to Wenceslas Square after 45 years and will reshape central transit—but not without traffic headaches. Closures and diversions are expected until 2027.

Czech Prime Minister Petr Fiala’s government faces a no-confidence vote on Tuesday—the fourth of its term—after a scandal involving bitcoin donations rocked the coalition. Justice Minister Pavel Blažek has resigned, and pressure mounts on Finance Minister Zbyněk Stanjura. Fiala is expected to meet with coalition partner STAN ahead of the vote, as internal dissent grows.

Thinking of heading to the coast? RegioJet’s summer buses to Split, Zadar, Šibenik, and Trogir start running daily from June 16, with tickets from CZK 999. FlixBus offers budget-friendly rides to Rijeka and Krk. Book early—these routes sell out fast. More info

On Wednesday, June 18, Prague’s Kulaťák becomes a giant open-air laboratory as ScienceFest returns with 100 interactive exhibits, hands-on experiments, and STEM fun for all ages. No registration required and admission is free—just bring your curiosity. Organized by Czech Technical University and partners. More info

Before closing for major renovations, Prague’s New Stage of the National Theatre will host a full-day celebration on June 18. Expect DJ sets, puppet shows, guided tours, and a final circus performance on Václav Havel Square. Free and open to all, the event offers a rare behind-the-scenes look. More info

This popular summer film series, spotlighting Czech cinema with English subtitles at Kino Aero, closes its fourth season on June 18 with fan favorite Identity Card (Občanský Průkaz). The bittersweet comedy, set in '70s Czechoslovakia, spotlights a time when rock music and long hair were a way of rebelling against both parents and the communist regime. More info

Fans of the surreal and strange won’t want to miss Up in Flames, the first Czech exhibition of artist and filmmaker David Lynch. Opening at DOX Centre on June 18, the show includes drawings, lithographs, and rarely seen films—with a performative surprise by Farm in the Cave at the vernissage. More info

Prague’s biggest music festival returns to Výstaviště June 19–21 with a stacked lineup featuring Alanis Morissette, Die Antwoord, and Rag’n’Bone Man. Expect three days of genre-bending music, food trucks, and summer festival vibes in the heart of the city.

Midsummer marks the summer solstice and the official first day of summer, falling on June 21 this year. In Prague, the solstice offers a stunning spectacle: from the Old Town Bridge Tower, the setting sun aligns perfectly with St Vitus’ Cathedral, lighting up its towers. This celestial event, likely planned by Emperor Charles IV, draws many to watch the magical sunset around 8 p.m. You can find tips for where to celebrate midsummer here.

MeetFactory kicks off its summer cinema series on June 18 with the Czech premiere of We Are Fugazi from Washington, D.C., a crowd-sourced tribute to the legendary band. The screening includes a live online interview with Fugazi’s Ian MacKaye and Brendan Canty. Entry is free, with optional donations supporting local nonprofit Kuchařky bez domova, a Prague café run by homeless women. More info

The Czech Philharmonic wraps its season on June 19 with a beloved tradition: a free open-air concert on Prague’s Hradčany Square. The performance, set against the castle skyline, is a spectacular farewell to the musical year and a must for lovers of classical music in an unforgettable setting. More info

Looking ahead, register now: On June 23, Americans abroad can join a free webinar with Rep. Darin LaHood, who recently introduced a bill to shift the U.S. to residence-based taxation. Hosted by the advocacy group Tax Fairness for Americans Abroad, the talk is a rare chance to engage directly on an issue that affects millions living overseas. Register here