II. Social Rituals

National events and celebrations

Being only in Prague from February to May, I did not have the chance to experience some of the Czech Republic's more unusual national celebrations and events (with the exception of Masoput), however more common events like March 8th, Easter, and May 1st that marked by Czech traditions and customs could still be attended.

February - Masopust: A joyful frenzy

In February we were blessed to attend Masopust, the Czech national holiday. Dating back to pagan times and often compared with Shrove Tuesday or Carnival celebrations, Masopust is celebrated differently across Czech Republic often featuring music, dance performances, costume parades and of course traditional food and beverages!

Masopust, or Masochism in Czech, has significant cultural meaning. As a celebration that blends pagan and Christian traditions, Masopust provides communities a chance to come together before entering Lent's period of reflection and fasting.

I had the great fortune of experiencing this national celebration on the streets of Prague, witnessing parades, dance performances, costumes, and tasting the local delicacies.

March 8 - International Women's Day

International Women's Day was traditionally observed more widely during the Communist era in Czech Republic. Although today's celebration is less lavish, many still take this day to show gratitude toward women by giving flowers or small presents as tokens of our respect and appreciation.

Easter

Easter traditions in the Czech Republic combine Christian customs and folklore. One particular custom involves men lightly whipping women with a willow branch whip called a "pomlazka", symbolizing youth and fertility. Women then give these men painted eggs called "kraslice".

Easter markets in Prague are an annual tradition, providing delicious roast ham, sausages, trdelnik (rolled and toasted pastries), braided buns (mazanec), as well as drink options like Czech beer, mulled wine (svarak) or toddy.

May 1 - Labor Day and Love Day

May 1st marks Labor Day, yet in Prague this date also holds romantic significance. Many visit Karel Hynek Macha, a celebrated Czech Romantic poet buried at Petrin Park; couples then kiss under cherry blossom trees as part of celebrating spring and love on this special day.

Sources :

https://francais.radio.cz/le-carnaval-masopust-8610793

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Slavic_carnival

https://worldpass.heyme.care/fr/blog/les-traditions-tch%C3%A8ques-et-march%C3%A9s-de-p%C3%A2ques-%C3%A0-prague#:~:text=Les%20fameux%20%C5%93ufs%20peints%20et,chaque%20famille%20avec%20les%20enfants.