Czech folklore

The Czech Republic has a strong folklore tradition. The folk culture was always present in the lives of people and many of its features and traditions were preserved until nowadays. Therefore many traditional buildings and parts of Czech folklore are included in the UNESCO’s heritage programs. Come and experience the Czech folklore in Prague.

Czech folk traditions – “Jízda králů”
One of the most precious folk traditions of the Moravian region, registered within the UNESCO intangible heritage program, is the “Ride of the Kings” (“Jízda králů”) in Vlcnov. It is a traditional parade which is led by a group of horse riders; in the middle a young boy is riding a horse, dressed in a traditional girl costume. His companions guide him through the village, asking the villagers for money and goods for the king. Everybody is wearing a traditional costume, the horse harnesses are highly decorated as well. It is a great honor for the young boy’s family to have a King chosen from their center.
The whole celebration is accompanied by various music performances and traditional dancing, as well as tasting of Moravian wines, plum brandy or Czech meals.

Ride of the Kings – the origins
There is a legend which explains one of the possible origins of this tradition. It is said that during one of the wars between Czech king George of Podebrady and King Mathias of Hungary in the 15th century, Mathias had to flee the battle. He was dressed in female garments not to be recognized, riding along with his companions.

Song folklore

The Czech people are well-known for their musical talent. Czech music therefore boasts a very long tradition and there are still many folk music groups which perform the traditional style of music. Although the Czech Republic is a very small country, myriads of different folk music styles keep living on. The folk music is so much varied that even when you travel from one village to another, their songs, musical instruments as well as costumes will differ, no matter whether you are staying in Bohemia or Moravia. However, the easiest way to get in touch with the diverse folk music styles is to visit the unforgettable folklore shows in Prague.

Song folklore – musical instruments

The Czech song folklore is inherently associated with the traditional musical instruments. The violin as the main instrument is an inseparable part of traditional folk groups and together with the double bass and the dulcimer they give the essential feel to the Czech traditional music. There are, however, also other musical instruments that spice the Czech song folklore. These include the Moravian bagpipes “gajdy”, shepherd’s pipe “fujara”, the trumpet “trombita” and diverse types of whistles.

Taste the Czech song folklore

Do you truly want to absorb Czech culture? The best way to do this is to find a local restaurant and experience the delightful Czech folk music performed by traditional musicians along with enjoying your meal. Come and taste the song folklore in Prague.

Prague meals

Prague is well-known not only for its architectural beauty and rich cultural heritage but also for its delicious cuisine. Where Paris has cheese and wine, Prague has dumplings and beer. Czech cuisine is so much embodied in the Prague culture that your stay in the capital could not be regarded as complete without trying some of the traditional Prague meals that are offered by restaurants throughout the city. And if you are that kind of person who likes absorbing cultures, the best way to do it is to visit some of the restaurants that arrange folklore shows. Come and experience the Czech folklore in Prague.

Traditional Prague meals

The true soul food of Prague and the whole Czech Republic is “vepřo-knedlo-zelo” – roast pork with dumplings and sauerkraut. It is one of the favorites of the Prague locals as well as goulash, which is also served with the tasty dumplings. Visitors with a sweet tooth should definitely not miss the traditional “svíčková na smetaně” either, which consists of a slice of beef tenderloin served in a creamy sauce.

Prague meals and drinks

Can you imagine visiting Prague without trying some of the numerous brands of the excellent Czech beer? It is difficult to picture the traditional Prague meals without the accompaniment of beer, the traditional Czech drink which is considered to be among the best in the world. Feel the spirit of Prague and let yourself drift away by the delightful blend of unique flavors.

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