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Masopust in Prague, also known as Prague Carnival, is a festive Czech tradition similar to Mardi Gras, celebrated with boisterous parades, masked processions, folk music, and an abundance of great food. Masopust, based on centuries-old legend, celebrates the passage from winter to spring and serves as a final joyful indulgence before the austere fasting period of Lent.
Masopust means “meat-fast,” emphasising its historical significance as a time to feast before the restrictions of Lent begin. Masopust, like other European carnivals such as Venice’s Carnevale and Germany’s Fasching, combines pagan traditions with Christian customs to create a distinct and colourful festival.
Communities throughout Prague and the Czech Republic celebrate the event with elaborate masks, folk performances, and substantial Czech dishes such as sausages, roast pork, and traditional doughnuts (koblihy).
Masopust in Prague, with its rich cultural legacy and energetic ambience, remains a popular annual event that brings people together in joyful celebration.
When is the Prague Carnival 2025?
If you’re wondering, “When is the carnival in Prague?” the answer is late February to early March 2025. Masopust, Prague’s version of Carnival, is a colourful pre-Lenten festival complete with costumes, music, and eating. The celebrations will begin on Fat Thursday (February 27, 2025) and continue through Shrove Tuesday (March 4, 2025) and Shrove Wednesday (March 5, 2025).
Throughout Prague, parades of masked characters, ranging from devils and farmers to goats, pigs, and sheep, will go through the streets. The Masopust in Prague 2025 procession will stop at homes where participants will be offered traditional Czech food and beverages.
The festivities will be spread across renowned landmarks such as Clam-Gallas Palace, Old Town Square, and Letná Park, with exciting parades, masked performances, and Cocina checa.
If you appreciate lively street celebrations and folk traditions, don’t miss out on this amazing pre-Lenten celebration before March 5, 2025!
Best places to celebrate Masopust in Prague
Wondering where to go for the best Masopust celebrations in Prague? Here are the best places to experience the Masopust in Prague parades, masks, and Czech traditions!
1. The Žižkov Masopust Parade
Date: March 1, 2025
Ubicación: Radost Park, Atrium Žižkov, Čajkovského Street
This is one of the largest and most frenetic Masopust processions in Prague. The masked parade in Žižkov showcases huge puppets, musicians, artists, and horse-drawn carriages. Expect free food, beverages, and a lively street party atmosphere. If you want to experience classic Czech carnival pandemonium, this is the place to be.
2. Malá Strana, Hradčany Masopust
Date: March 1, 2025
Ubicación: Loretánská Street, Malostranské Náměstí
For historical insight on Masopust, go to Malá Strana and Hradčany. The events include theatrical acts, costumed characters, and traditional Czech music. Families will enjoy the kid-friendly activities, while history lovers can appreciate the centuries-old traditions brought to life in Prague’s most gorgeous neighbourhoods
3. Bohemian Carnival, Prague
Date: March 1–4, 2025
Ubicación: Clam-Gallas Palace, Old Town Square
Bohemian Carnival in Prague 2025 is Masopust with a beautiful Venetian touch. It transforms Prague into an atmosphere straight out of a large European masquerade ball. Expect elaborate masks, exquisite costumes, and high-society entertainment. If you prefer champagne to beer and waltzing over raucous street celebrations, this is the party for you.
4. Karlín Masopust Festival.
Date: March 1, 2025
Ubicación: Karlín Square
Karlín’s Masopust is a delightful blend of tradition and contemporary pleasure. The event has live music, food stalls, and a variety of creative activities. Visitors can sample typical Czech dishes ranging from roast pigs and sausages to sweet carnival delights. The relaxed but festive ambience makes it ideal for families and foodies.
5. The Břevnov Masquerade Parade
Date: March 4, 2025
Ubicación: Bělohorská Street to Břevnov Monastery
The parade marches from Bělohorská Street to Břevnov Monastery, ending in a traditional Czech beer tapping. Along the way, expect jugglers, street performers, and substantial Czech foods such as jitrnice (liver sausages) and tlačenka (head cheese). It’s the ideal blend of tradition, entertainment, and delicious food.
Traditional Masopust Food and Drinks
Masopust in Prague is all about feasting before fasting, and Czech cuisine does not disappoint. From crispy doughnuts to hearty roast meats and strong cocktails, here are five must-try foods for Prague’s carnival season.
1. Koblihy – Czech Doughnuts
Who can resist a delicious doughnut? Koblihy is light and fluffy, stuffed with jam or custard, and sprinkled with powdered sugar. Whether you get one from a street seller or a local bakery, they’re the ideal sweet treat to fuel your Masopust adventure.
Fuente Freepik
2. Bohemian-Style Roasted Meat
Slow-roasted pork, duck, or goose are essential ingredients for a Czech feast. These meats are delicate, delicious, and served with dumplings and braised cabbage, a Masopust staple!
3. Jitrnice and Jelito-Traditional Pork Sausages
Jitrnice is a seasoned white sausage prepared from a minced pig and offal that is perfect for pork lovers, whereas jelito is a rich blood sausage. They’re a must-have for everyone who like traditional Czech flavours, especially when served with sauerkraut and toast.
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4. Medovina – Honey Wine
Medovina is the ideal drink for those looking for something warm and comforting. This sweet, spicy honey wine is ideal for enjoying while you hop around the carnival festivities.
5. Slivovice – Plum Brandy
If you truly want to celebrate like a native, try a shot of Slivovice. This strong plum brandy sends a punch and instantly warms you up. Don’t underestimate it; it’s as powerful as the Masopust festival in Prague itself!
Masquerade and costumes
Masopust would not be the same without its colourful masks and costumes. People dress up as folklore characters, animals, and historical individuals, reviving centuries-old customs. Expect to witness dancing devils, mischievous goats, and regal kings and queens on the streets.
Some gatherings go beyond costumes; theatrical performances and live folk music enhance the magic. Parades transform into interactive street performances in which masked figures sing, dance, and amuse the crowds. Whether you watch or participate, the Masopust in Prague is all about having fun, laughing, and getting into a bit of mischief—just the way it should be!
Información práctica
Masopust celebrations are held around Prague, including Žižkov, Malá Strana, Hradčany, and Old Town Square. The biggest festivities, such as the Žižkov Masopust Parade and the Bohemian Carnival at Clam-Gallas Palace, occur between late February and early March. Most street parades are free to attend, however private masquerade balls might require a ticket.
Tourists can witness the vibrant processions at the Masopust in Prague, eat at traditional food vendors, or even participate by dressing up and wearing masks. Arrive early for the finest spots, and prepare to dance, feast, and enjoy the festive mayhem!
