Ahoj, Monday! 5 things you need to know this week in Czechia

The final phase of the Barrandov Bridge reconstruction in Prague begins Monday, Aug. 19. Traffic signs will be updated from Saturday, potentially causing delays, especially for drivers from Jižní spojka to Smíchov and Modřanská. The project, which started in 2022, faced delays due to unexpected issues with the northern section of the bridge. Repairs are now shifting to the southern part, with completion expected by the end of the year. The total cost is projected to exceed the initial estimate of CZK 594.5 million.

The third edition of the NeverMore 68 festival will take place at the Výstaviště Exhibition Grounds in Prague on Aug. 21, commemorating the 56th anniversary of the Soviet-led occupation of Czechoslovakia. The event will feature concerts, film screenings, debates, and a special focus on women of dissent. Additionally, a bronze memorial by Jiří Sozanský honoring 137 victims of the invasion will be unveiled near Prague's Kampa Museum, where it will remain for at least a year.

Czech internet users have humorously skewed an airBaltic poll to name 48 of its aircraft, pushing the Estonian town of Kunda to the top with over 145,000 votes. Kunda, which translates to a vulgar term in Czech, is currently leading the poll and dominating second-place Püssi despite its lack of cultural significance. The poll, which includes 232 Baltic towns, closes on Aug. 22. Czech users have rallied to support Kunda, creating a buzz around the competition and showcasing the impact of online voting.

The Merkádo festival will transform Náplavka into a celebration of Latin America from Aug. 23-24. This year's 11th edition of the festival, which has relocated from Jiřího z Poděbrad to the Vltava embankment, features Latino markets with over 50 stalls offering exotic foods and products from Latin America. The festival includes cultural performances such as Mexican guitar, Brazilian drumming, and Cuban salsa. Kids can enjoy piñatas and craft workshops. Entry is free, and the event is supported by several Latin American embassies.

The Archirun 2024 will take place on Aug. 24, offering participants a unique chance to see Prague from a bird’s eye view. Organized by the Center for Architecture and Urban Planning (CAMP), the event opens normally inaccessible rooftops and showcases the city’s transformation. Suitable for all, including seniors and families, the 8-kilometer route explores historic, renovated, and new buildings. Registration is available on the CAMP website, with free entry for children under 15.