Masopust is the Czech carnival: the stretch of feasting, dancing and masked processions between Epiphany and the start of Lent. It ends on Shrove Tuesday, 9 February 2027, the day before Ash Wednesday. In Prague it runs alongside the ball season, and most neighbourhood parades fall on the Saturdays of late January and February.
What to Expect
A masopust parade is loud and home-made. People dress as bears, horses, chimney sweeps, devils and characters from local folklore, with brass or folk bands. There is usually street food built around pork, such as sausages and jitrnice, with mulled wine and doughnuts. Traditionally the season closes on Shrove Tuesday night with the mock “burial of the double bass” (pochování basy), the end of music and dancing until Easter.
Where to Go
| Žižkov Masopust Žižkov, Prague 3 |
Prague’s best-known parade, now past its 30th edition. In 2026 it left náměstí Jiřího z Poděbrad, stopped at the town hall for the handover of the key to Žižkov, and ended in Park Radost with music and theatre. |
| Malá Strana carnival Hradčany / Malá Strana |
A procession from Loretánské náměstí down Nerudova street to Kampa. In 2026 it was held on the Saturday before Shrove Tuesday. |
| Karlín Masopust Karlín, Prague 8 |
A family day with a mask parade from Kaizlovy sady to Karlínské náměstí, plus concerts, workshops and a market. |
Practical Notes
- Dates: Parade dates for 2027 are usually announced in December or January. Check the Prague 3 and Prague 1 district websites and the events’ social media. Last year’s dates are only a guide.
- Tickets: The street parades are free.
- Getting there: For Žižkov, Jiřího z Poděbrad (metro line A) is at the start of the route.
- Weather: February is often below freezing. Dress for standing outside, and see our February guide.
