Carnival in Cesky Krumlov

Carnival traditionally takes place between the Three Kings and the Ash Wednesday, which marks the start of lent or the 40-day fasting period before Easter. 

As some of you might already know, over the years most European countries started to celebrate Halloween due to globalization and the American influence. However, countries like Czechia have their own Halloween-like tradition earlier in the year, and it's called carnival or masquerade. 

Historically, numerous festivities marked the week of carnival in Czechia, such as entertainment, dancing at the main town or village squares and special food delicacies. In the old days, large banquets would be prepared and enjoyed at the royal court and pig roasts were made in the villages. 

Over the years, the traditions have been kept and the week of carnival and masquerading remains as one of the most festive, joyous and cultural event of the year. The carnival has always been rich in food and indulgence by many, since the Wednesday of the carnival (Ash Wednesday) marks the beginning of the fasting period before Easter. Therefore the main celebration takes place on Shrove Tuesday, where the locals dress up in their costumes of choice and eat traditional foods -such as greasy traditional Czech donuts filled with cherry jam along with a warm drink. Alcoholic beverages, such as liquor or local schnapps are also consumed. 

If you have never experienced a week of carnival, what you should know is that a traditional parade will be taking place in numerous cities and towns around Czechia. However, Český Krumlov is a unique place to witness or take part in a week of carnival. This year will mark the 13th year of the carnival parade in Český Krumlov’s town center. This is a very picturesque event, where participants wear colorful masks as part of the masquerade; they wear traditional folk outfits, and are accompanied by musicians and dancers. The festival includes street theater performances and others, such as jugglers and much more. The parade this year will take place from the 2nd until the 5th of March 2019, in Český Krumlov. 

Český Krumlov is a medieval town, which lies in the southern part of the country. It is located close to the Austrian and German border, and takes around two and a half hours to reach by car from Pr[ague. ](https://www.livetheworld.com/post/prague-s-old-town-4m9g)It is a rather small town but special as it’s under the protection of UNESCO since 1992. What is so unique and charming about the town is its cultural richness. The southern Czech town is known for its art scene, various events, numerous museums, concerts and musical festivals. The history of the town is portrayed through the city’s architecture and bohemian style.    

Get your masks and costumes ready, and indulge in the full week of festivities!