2.02.2012

Czech Carnival: the Art of Life

In the Christian world, the carnival meant that you could enjoy overwhelming amounts of everything that was forbidden during the subsequent 40-day fasting period: music, singing, dance, feasting and having fun over a glass of alcohol. Today, carnival survives even with no fasting to precede and it takes different forms in different countries. Let's take a look at the Czech type of carnival. You will see it's worth your while!

The carnival in the capital of the Czech Republic has been influenced by the Italian Renaissance. Florence, Venice and other cities exported their tradition of a flurry of masks which temporarily erased social differences. In its traditional form, the carnival reached its peak in the Baroque era during which the masks and the rich allegorical sets took on symbolical meanings.
The atmosphere of the magical Prague carnival survives to this day in the spectacular Bohemian Carnevale. Dozens of cultural, social and gastronomical events take place under this brand and turn into unforgettable experiences for all their participants. This year's Bohemian Carnevale starts with the Salon on February 10. However, the real carnival revelry erupts the day after, on Saturday, as the Gathering of the Masks, ceremonial opening of the city to the carnival, Festa - the great feast, and finally, Bellaria - the night of love take turns in the Clam-Gallas Palace and on the Old Town Square. The program continues until Wednesday, February 22 with Divertimento Furioso, which includes live outdoor performances by acrobats in the Old Town Square. Partner restaurants will also offer a special carnival menu known as Cuisine d'Alchimiste.

The Bohemian Carnevale culminates with the monumental Crystal Ball on Saturday, February 18, featuring opulent women's robes and glittering masks which will transport you straight into Mozart's era. Top dancers and acrobats, a costume parade, choice delicacies and many interesting participants guarantee that this is a ball where boredom is impossible to run into.

With or without a mask, come to Prague during carnival time and enjoy this amazing town dressed into bright-couloured costumes. You may find Prague a perfect place for organizing your next professional meeting or teambuilding. If so, just contact our FUCHS event team and we will be pleased to show you the best way how to run your event in Prague successfully.