Ahoj, Monday! 5 things you need to know this week in Czechia

For five days, Prague's kampus Hybernská will transform into a laboratory delving into the essence of Kafka's genius, often obscured by tourist-targeted kitsch. Activities at the central Prague venue will include readings, panel discussions, workshops, galleries, site-specific performances, and concerts, all aimed at reviving Kafka's unique mythology.

The program encompasses immersive theater experiences and site-specific installations, enriching participants' understanding of Kafka's literary legacy and connection to Prague. The event, which coincides with the 100th anniversary of Kafka's death this year, promises a blend of intellectual discourse, artistic exploration, and scientific inquiry into Kafka's enigmatic world.

Czech farmers will once again join European protests on March 20, staging tractor rallies across the country to demonstrate against a lack of government support. Minister of Agriculture Marek Výborný urges them not to disrupt traffic. Specifics of the Czech protests remain unclear but may involve public gatherings and discussions. Past protests included tractor processions and road blockages. Government measures to aid farmers have been deemed insufficient. Grievances include rural employment support, animal welfare funding, and pre-consolidation land taxation levels.

Prague's renowned One World Festival kicks off from March 20 with some key changes this year. For the first time, the festival will feature fictional films alongside its traditional documentary lineup, all centered on human rights themes. This significant shift aims to enhance audience engagement and broaden the festival's scope, while maintaining its commitment to showcasing impactful storytelling. The festival will run through March 28 in Prague and through April 21, 2024 in more than 40 additional cities across the Czech Republic.

The Czech Walking 2024 event kicks off in Jičín on March 23, promising healthy walks through stunning landscapes throughout the spring and summer seasons. Additional walks will take place in various regions from March to October. No registration is needed; just show up at the start point, and enjoy shorter routes for families and longer ones for enthusiasts, like a 50-kilometer trail near Brno. This year focuses on diabetes prevention, offering free blood sugar and pressure checks.

The U.S. Embassy Prague Consular Section will be under renovation and closed from March 18-28. Regular services should resume on April 2. Those anticipating a need for routine services before these dates are strongly urged to apply now. The consular section will continue to respond to emails as usual and assist people needing emergency services on a case-by-case basis.