What to do this weekend in Prague: Best events for Oct. 17–19

From Oct. 16–19, Prague transforms into a luminous art playground for the Signal Festival. Over 20 light, video mapping, and immersive displays will animate historic facades and hidden corners, along two main routes: the City Centre and Vinohrady. Standout works include OVERLOЯD on the Old Town Hall Tower (a first-time projection) by MammasONica, and a new water-screen 3D projection on the Dvořák Embankment. While many outdoor installations are free, Signal INSIDE offers ticketed indoor immersive experiences.

On Saturday, Oct. 18, Smíchovská náplavka fills with the aroma of soups from across the world at the popular Polívkování festival, celebrating autumnal soup. Visitors can enjoy a wide variety of comforting bowls: from Czech classics like potato, kulajda, and lentil soup to international favorites such as borscht, pho, ramen, bouillabaisse, and laksa. Fresh bread, crispy rolls, and sweet treats round out the offer, with additional street food options available throughout the day.

From Oct. 18-19, Holešovice turns into a haven for food lovers at the Guilty Pleasure Food Festival. Dozens of food trucks and stalls will serve indulgent bites – from juicy burgers and loaded hot dogs to pizzas and decadent desserts: all accompanied by relaxing music and sets from DJ True Detective. A dedicated chill-out zone offers a place to unwind with friends, a full plate, and a good drink.

Celebrate the Hindu Festival of Lights at Prague Zoo’s magical Diwali Lantern Parade. Bring your own LED lantern and enjoy entry for just CZK 1 between 5:30 p.m. and 6 p.m. The glowing procession through the Elephant Valley, home to a Hindu-style ashram temple, creates a stunning setting to honor this vibrant Indian tradition. Expect two light shows, music, and a joyful family atmosphere. (Note: Only LED lanterns are permitted for safety reasons.)

After a previous sold-out show at the venue, Parov Stelar (real name Marcus Füreder) returns to Forum Karlín on Oct. 17, 2025, presenting new songs from his upcoming album alongside reworked classics and an immersive live show. The performance will feature Füreder’s signature electro-swing sound with updated arrangements and visual elements. Throughout his career, he has earned numerous accolades, including 10 Amadeus Austrian Music Awards. With more than 3 million monthly listeners on Spotify, the Austrian artist ranks among the world’s most successful electronic musicians.

Mozart’s Idomeneo returns to the State Opera in a bold new staging by acclaimed Spanish director Calixto Bieito. Conducted by Konrad Junghänel, the production reimagines Mozart’s first true operatic masterpiece—an emotional tale of love, fate, and rebellion. The King of Crete faces a devastating vow to the god Neptune, while his son Idamante and the Trojan princess Ilia struggle with love across enemy lines. Expect powerful music, striking visuals, and modern references, including film projections from classic cinema.

Since 2006, Das Filmfest has opened Prague’s autumn film season with a showcase of the best new German-language cinema from Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. Expect a mix of mainstream hits, powerful documentaries, and international festival favorites—many of which are rarely shown in Czech cinemas. The festival also offers Q&As and discussions with European filmmakers. English subtitles on select films.

Step back in time and experience prehistory firsthand at the National Museum in Prague. Try ancient crafts like grain grinding, spinning, and weaving, meet Roman legionaries, and explore the world of Eduard Štorch’s prehistoric heroes. Don’t miss the chance to see the famous Lucy and Selam fossils before they return to Ethiopia.

Join citizens in Prague and around the world on Saturday at 3:30 p.m. for a 'coordinated day of action to defend democracy and stand against authoritarianism'. Organized by Democrats Abroad, the peaceful protest features speakers, music, and guidance on taking action from abroad.