Enjoy a Pilsen summer full of experiences
When someone mentions “Pilsen”, most of us immediately think of beer. And that’s no surprise considering the world’s first bottom-fermented light beer was brewed right here at the Pilsner Urquell Brewery. Pilsen is worth visiting, whether for only a few hours or even a few days. If you’re here during the summer, you’ll not only enjoy delicious, chilled beer and the local tourist attractions but also loads of amazing open-air cultural events. Take your pick from the list of attractions this summer, or simply come and see for yourself that Pilsen has fun events and locations for absolutely everyone.
Folklore and period history in June
The second weekend in June sees Pilsen displaying folklore and Medieval costumes. Another instalment of the International Folklore Festival CIOFF is in the works, which brings colourful folk costumes, folk music, and traditional tools from all over the country and abroad to Pilsen. Just as with every year, the programme in the historical city centre is capped with the Historical Weekend event. You’ll see knights, Pilsen monsters, dancing acrobats, and even musical performances, a period market, and a fireworks show.
And if you’re a theatre lover, don’t miss the unique, outdoor opera event. This year’s Night at the Opera, held at the Pilsen amphitheatre on Friday 23, June, will feature an original performance of Carmen. Expect a grandiose, cinematic show and a first-rate cast of singers.
July and its pleasant atmosphere
In July in Pilsen, you can look forward to a relaxing summer atmosphere around every corner. You’ll find the perfect place for a weekend sit-down on Riegrova Street in the city centre, where live music will accompany your glass of ice-cold beer or smooth wine. Or you can visit the Pilsner Urquell Brewery every Thursday to enjoy Czech bands performing here as part of the Summer at Pilsner Urquell festival.
Another option is DEPO2015, which regularly features live music throughout all of July during the DEPOvLETU event. And last but not least, the final weekend in July in Pilsen comes alive with the rhythm of jazz, swing, and the New Orleans atmosphere during the International Dixieland Festival.
A marathon of festivals in August
In August, you can expect to enjoy multi-day music festivals. It’s safe to say, no matter when you arrive, there’s a good chance you’ll happen upon a concert in the city centre. On Monday 7, August, the six-day Inspiral Garden festival will begin, transforming the Šafaříkovy sady park into an oasis of live music, theatre, silent DJ parties, local fashion, and worldwide gastronomy.
Friday 12, August is the ideal day to visit the city with kids, given that the Sportmania festival will be launching 8 days of sports, movement, and multifunctional sporting grounds, where both children and adults can spend the entire day.
Next, the Festival on the Street starts on 18 August. This 9-day event features a programme full of different bands and diverse genres. As August turns into September, you can then admire the street performers in the city centre. Musicians, dancers, theatre performers, and other artists from all over the world will give their all during the Pilsen Busking Fest, all for the low, low price of “whatever change you throw in their cap”.
Gastro-experiences in September
September in Pilsen means it’s time to eat. The first two gastronomy festivals will be held from 1-3 September: the Burger Street Festival at the Pilsner Urquell Brewery and the festival of Pilsen gastronomy, TUTO jídlo. If you’re a beer lover, then the Sun in the Glass festival was made for you; don’t miss it on 15-16 September at the Purkmistr brewery. Here you’ll enjoy dozens of beer specialties from both Bohemia and abroad while listening to live music.