Felicity Long
Spring has sprung in the Czech Republic, and tourism entities around the destination are targeting spa-goers, foodies and music lovers with festivals and special events to usher in the warmer weather months.
Karlovy Vary kicks of its spa season with festivities from May 6-8, highlighted by a parade reenactment of the city's founding complete with actors in costume. The parade, which wends through various scenic parts of the city, culminates with a traditional blessing of the mineral springs.
Marianske Lazne, a city in western Bohemia, also takes spa seriously – this year will mark its 208th spa season celebration. From May 13 - 15, events feting the opening of the season will include demonstrations of birds of prey, musical concerts, a craft fair, charity golf and tennis tournaments and the blessing of the mineral springs.
In Prague, from May 12 - June 4 the concert halls will burst with music during the Prague Spring International Music Festival during which 50 concerts will showcase nearly 100 orchestras, singers and ensemble groups from more than 20 nations. Musical styles will feature classical and jazz, ranging from traditional to cutting edge styles.
Foodies can sample local cuisine at the Prague Food Festival, set for May 27 - 29. Pop-up booths in the Prague Castle Royal Gardens will serve up everything from main courses and desserts to coffee, chocolate, wine and beer.
Speaking of beer, the Czech Beer Festival Prague, scheduled for May 12 - 28, mimics Munich’s Oktoberfest with 70-plus brands of Czech beer served by waiters in traditional costumes.
The festival also features local culinary offerings, musical entertainment and a special exhibition called Beer Diversity, serving varieties of non-Czech beer.
Finally, for a little historical drama, the Slovacka folklore festival, or Ride of the Kings, is a costumed parade attended by locals during which18-year-old boys are allowed to walk with the royal entourage as a coming-of-age ritual.
In addition to the parade, the festival, set for May 27 - 29, includes folkloric dance and music performances, exhibitions and wine tasting. The event has been designated a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO.