Ahoj, Monday! 6 tips for surviving the week ahead in Czechia

Good morning, and welcome to the week of Nov. 11–17. Here’s your friendly guide to making the most of Czechia this week, whether lacing up to skate, grabbing a last-minute St. Martin's table or commemorating the Velvet Revolution all week long.

The Czech Republic is commemorating War Veterans’ Day today, honoring soldiers from both World Wars, legionnaires, and modern-day military personnel. Events across the country include award ceremonies, military equipment displays, and commemorative concerts. The poppy flower, a symbol of remembrance, is featured prominently in various initiatives, including the Post Bellum collection to support veterans and preserve their stories, going on all month.

Prague Freedom Week, celebrating the 35th anniversary of the Velvet Revolution, runs Nov. 11–17. The week-long event features over 100 cultural and educational activities on Národní Street, highlighting freedom, democracy, and human rights. Highlights include the Jan Opletal Awards, Václav Havel Known-Unknown installation, Karel Kryl tribute, LGBT+ focused events, and the premiere of "Freedom Connects Us" on Nov. 17.

This year, Nov. 17 falls on a Sunday. Unfortunately, in Czechia, public holidays are not given in lieu—therefore, no days off will be given on Monday. The National Museum and other cultural institutions are open to visitors with free admission on Nov. 17. A parade will also take place down Národní třída.

Despite being a public holiday, the law prohibiting sales on selected public holidays is not in effect for the November holiday. Stores can remain open without restriction, and all major grocery chains and shopping malls should be open.

St. Martin’s Day is on Nov. 11. It traditionally marks the arrival of winter: according to folklore, St. Martin arrives on a white horse, symbolizing the first snowfall. The day is a time-honored feast in Czechia, celebrated with roasted goose and the first wine of the season, known as Svatomartinské vino. You can still book a spot to savor golden goose, crisp red cabbage, pillowy dumplings, and St. Martin’s wine. See our tips here.

Celebrate Sparta Prague's 131st birthday with a unique stadium tour on Nov. 15. Explore exclusive areas like the press box, VIP lounges, and behind-the-scenes operations. Enjoy food, drinks, and entertainment for all ages, including eSports, photo booths, and mascot meet-and-greets. Tickets are available now for the club's upcoming match against Brno on Nov. 23.

Elpida's new Stará škola cafe offers more than just delicious treats. Located in Prague 5, this social enterprise provides employment opportunities for the elderly while serving up heartwarming comfort food. Enjoy a cup of coffee and a slice of grandma's pie, knowing that your patronage supports a worthy cause.

Ice-skating rinks will open around the capital from the middle of November, with several already welcoming guests this week including the River Rink in Karlín open this weekend), Centrum Černý Most (Nov. 12) and the large ice rink on Letná Park (Nov. 16). Ice rinks are dotted around the capital and will open en masse from the middle to end of November. They usually remain open till the end of February.