Film legends and beer school: 11 things to see, know, and do this week in Czechia

Legendary Letná cinema Bio Oko will close on July 1, for renovations aimed at improving comfort and projection quality. Under Prague 7’s patronage, the upgrade includes assigned seating, better sound, and a new projector. The café remains mostly open, though not fully accessible. Summer screenings will take place off-site with Studio Hrdinů. The revamped hall, preserving its historic charm, reopens in autumn 2025.

Starting July 1, Czech drivers can collect renewed or replacement licenses at over 10,000 Balíkovna boxes and pickup points, avoiding office visits. Applications can be submitted online via the Transport Portal using a bank ID. Standard processing takes 20 days (or 5 accelerated), plus 1–2 days for delivery. Licenses are stored for 2–5 days and can be picked up with a code. Interest in online renewal remains low, despite growing eligibility.

The 14th International Organ Festival at St. Vitus Cathedral offers five Tuesday evening concerts in July, beginning July 1, showcasing top Czech and international organists. Held in Prague Castle’s iconic cathedral, the event features the majestic Mölzer organ and performances by artists like Ruben Sturm, Irena Chřibková, and Barocco sempre giovane. Organized by the Metropolitan Chapter of St. Vitus, the festival promises a rich musical experience in a breathtaking historic setting.

EU lawmakers are voting on July 1 to ban airlines from charging fees for small hand luggage, aligning with a 2014 EU court ruling. Passengers would be entitled to bring a personal item and a small carry-on free of charge. The proposal, part of broader passenger rights reforms, must still pass full parliament and EU Council approval. Airlines oppose the move, calling it restrictive. Other measures include free seating for children and companions of disabled travelers.

DOX and Ponrepo Cinema kick off a summer film series on Wednesday, July 2, with The Wizard of Oz (1939), the first of nine open-air screenings tied to the museum's David newly opened Lynch exhibit. Set under the stars near the iconic airship, the program features Lynch’s films and works that inspired him. Audiences can expect expert introductions, high-quality headphone sound, and summer drinks.

The School of Beer on July 2 offers a hands-on experience in the Czech art of pouring beer, from styles like Hladinka and Šnyt to Řezané and Mlíko. Led by a pro, participants enjoy unlimited pours, tasty snacks, and insight into the history and craft behind each style. This 4.5-hour session at UM, Národní 28, is limited to 10 people, ages 18+, making it a relaxed, memorable dive into Czech beer culture.

Sabor Latino, a celebration of Latin American culture, will take place at Náměstí Republiky Square in front of PALLADIUM from July 3-6. The event will feature lively music, dance, traditional food, drinks, and handmade crafts, transforming the square into a colorful Latino fiesta.

The 59th Karlovy Vary International Film Festival begins this week on Friday July 4 and runs through July 12). This year the festival honors actors Stellan Skarsgard, Vicky Krieps, Dakota Johnson, and Peter Sarsgaard. Michael Douglas will present a restored One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest. The festival also pays tribute to its late president Jiří Bartoška, featuring a documentary and photo exhibition. Read our full coverage of this year's festival here.

This year, both Czech national holidays in early July fall on the weekend. Saints Cyril and Methodius Day falls on Saturday, July 5. Jan Hus Day on Sunday, July 6, also won’t bring any additional time off. In Czechia, public holidays that land on weekends are not moved to weekdays—so no substitute holiday or bonus day off is granted.

Magdalena Bay, a pop duo known for colorful, psychedelic, and timeless music, will perform at ARCHA+ on July 6 as part of their Imaginal Mystery Tour. Formed by Micah Tenenbaum and Matthew Lewin, they released their debut Mercurial World in 2021. Their hyperpop sound, blending glitch aesthetics and introspective lyrics, has earned them spots at major festivals like Coachella and Lollapalooza, drawing comparisons to Charli XCX and Grimes.

Bohemia JazzFest, founded in 2006 by jazz guitarist Rudy Linka, is now one of Europe’s largest summer music festivals. Offering free admission, it attracts nearly 100,000 fans annually to historic squares across the Czech Republic. The 2025 festival kicks off on July 8 with an opening concert in Prague’s Royal Garden.