10 tips for celebrating International Museum Day in Prague and the Czech Republic

International Museum Day takes place around the world on May 18, 2023. Dating back to 1977, the International Council of Museums (ICOM) set up the date to raise awareness about the role of museums in society and to promote their cultural significance.

The annual event has grown into a global phenomenon though, in the Czech Republic, there aren't many participating museums (an interactive map lets you see this year's art offerings in Czechia). This year, the theme of "Museum, Sustainability, and Well-being," highlights the vital role museums play in promoting environmental responsibility, health, and overall well-being.

These Prague venues are open for International Museum Day; scroll down for locations outside of the capital as well as a couple of bonus tips for free events that coincide with the day but aren't an official part of the festivities.

All of the buildings of the National Gallery are open to the public for free on May 18, including admission to several permanent exhibitions at the National Gallery Prague, such as the Old Masters I and II, Medieval Art in Bohemia and Central Europe, Art of the Long Century, 1918⁠–⁠1938: First Czechoslovak Republic, 1956–1989: Architecture for All.

From the Czech Museum of Music to the Náprstek Museum, the National Memorial on Vítkov Hill, the Antonín Dvořák Museum, and the new and historic buildings, all of the museums of the National Museum complex open their doors for free on International Day of Museums.

Explore the agricultural heritage of the Czech Republic at the National Museum of Agriculture in Letná with free entry on May 18. Take advantage of free admission to explore all the exhibitions and learn about the history, technology, and traditions of farming in the Czech lands.

The National Police Museum in Prague is situated within the grounds of a former Augustinian monastery on Karlova Street, established in 1350 by Charles IV. The museum's focal point is the Church of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary and St. Charles the Great.

Through objective documentation and presentation, it chronicles the history, evolution, and functioning of security forces in Czechoslovakia, starting from its inception to the present day.

Discover the history of education at the National Pedagogical Museum, which pays tribute to educator J. A. Comenius. Uncover the evolution of teaching methods, explore vintage classroom setups, and learn about influential educators throughout history. Kid-friendly activities are planned.

Embark on a journey through the world of technology and innovation at the National Technical Museum. Enjoy reduced admission of CZK 80, and children aged 6-15 can enter for just CZK 40. Explore exhibitions showcasing advancements in various fields, including transportation, industry, astronomy, and more.

From May 19-21, We are open / Prague's Art District 7 opens the cultural venues of the district for free. Visit galleries, studios, art workshops, design shops, creative community centers, and other organizations which have prepared special programs for this occasion.

Czech Radio is celebrating its 100th anniversary with a series of events throughout the year. The anniversary will culminate in a free concert at Prague's Riegrovy Sady on May 18, the day that Czechoslovak Radio began regular broadcasting a hundred years ago. Mirai, Chinaski, Aneta Langerová, and Marek Ztracený are among the acts slated to perform. Open days and exhibits will also accompany the event.

The national opening of the 19th Museum Nights Festival will take place on Friday, May 19, 2023, in Olomouc. Museum Night in Brno will take place on Saturday, May 20, and both large cultural institutions and small galleries and museums are participating again this year. They will remain open after 6 p.m., and in addition to their exhibitions, there will be activities for adults and children alike.

Museum Night in Prague had its last outing in 2019. There are currently no plans to reinstate the event, which was welcomed by many of the city's museum lovers, on a large scale. A small event organized by the Association of Czech Museums and Galleries takes place on June 16.