Prague´s Autumn Events Not To Miss
Prague Autumn © iStock/Brzozowska
Prague is a perennially captivating destination, but it’s particularly so during autumn. As well as offering up exquisite scenery – bronzed leaves set against a skyline of turrets and spires – the city also hosts an engaging calendar of cultural happenings. From festivals dedicated to the arts to cosy whisky tastings and dazzling light shows, discover the city’s cultural side with our guide to the best events in Prague in autumn.
Prague Crossroads Festival
Theatre has always been a powerful medium to provoke debate and challenge the status quo. This is certainly the belief that backs the Prague Crossroads Festival, which is dedicated to Václav Havel’s political and theatrical legacy, and hosts a feisty repertoire of performances every September in response to the world’s current social issues. Attendees can expect a provocative array of shows that lurch giddily from satirical ventriloquy to highly conceptual physical theatre and back again.
Signal Festival
Lighting up the heart of Prague with a phantasmagory of sparkles, Signal Festival – the annual festival of lights – transforms many of the city’s most famous sights, such as Charles Bridge and Old Town Square, with contemporary audio-visual art installations. As sunlight fades on the shortening days, Signal Festival sparks to life. Take an evening stroll around the city to marvel at innovative light displays and video-mapping technologies presented by artists from around the world.
Dvořák Prague International Music Festival
Antonín Dvořák was one of the most important Czech composers of all time, and the Dvořák Prague International Music Festival celebrates his contribution to music with a series of concerts at various venues across the city. It’s an annual highlight for classical music enthusiasts, with international orchestras and chamber ensembles performing scores by Dvořák and other leading composers. Look out for the festival’s programme of accompanying events with a more experimental edge.
Prague Sounds
One of the premiere music festivals in the Czech Republic, Prague Sounds ushers in a wealth of world-class music, from jazz and electronica to contemporary classical and hip-hop, to Prague every autumn. Its star-studded line-up certainly puts the Czech capital on the map, with global heavyweights drawing music fans from across the world.
Designblok
Designblok is one of the largest annual design events in the Czech Republic, with over 50,000 visitors attending every year. Taking place over several days each October, the festival brings together the best design and fashion talents. If you’re interested in viewing the latest fashions by Czech designers, exploring contemporary design trends, or purchasing distinctive furniture and home furnishings, this event should feature high in your itinerary.
Whisky Life! Prague
Every autumn, Whisky Life! Prague returns to the city’s historical centre bringing with it a sophisticated range of whiskies and bourbons from across the world. There’s an excellent programme of masterclasses for those looking to learn more, accompanied by live music and food. As an added bonus, those attending the festival in a kilt will be rewarded with a free dram.