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

U.S. streaming platform Max, formerly and commonly referred to as HBO Max, will launch in Czechia on May 21. Max will, among other things, combine the Discovery+ and Eurosport platforms. It will also broadcast the 2024 Olympics in Paris and show popular series such as The Last of Us and Euphoria.

A standard subscription to the rebranded service will cost CZK 219. Current HBO Max customers in Czechia will be automatically transitioned to the new service this week, but won't see a price increase until July.

As part of the year-long Prague International Bluenight series, two major American acts are coming to Lucerna Music Bar this week. On May 21, catch a mesmerizing performance from The Reverend Peyton’s Big Damn Band, renowned for their master fingerpicking guitarist and unique drum kit crafted from unconventional items. Then, on May 22, groove to the soulful tunes of Delvon Lamarr and his organ trio, promising an unforgettable blend of soul-jazz and funky rhythms.

Running from May 23 to May 26 in Holešovice, the Prague Book World international book fair will spotlight German authors and commemorate the 100th anniversary of Franz Kafka's death. Renowned writers like Judith Hermann and Reiner Stach will present their works, alongside discussions on contemporary German-language literature. The fair will also feature events honoring Kafka, including appearances by biographer Reiner Stach and Austrian cartoonist Nicolas Mahler.

The preliminary round of the 2024 IIHF Ice Hockey World Championships has been taking place in Prague and Ostrava since May 12, and the playoffs kick off on Thursday, May 23. The Czech national team has clinched a spot in the eight-team playoffs, with NHL stars set to bolster the squad for a run at the gold. Quarterfinals will take place in both Prague and Ostrava on Thursday, with semifinals and finals hitting Prague's O2 Arena on Saturday and Sunday.

Summer vibes return to Prague's rooftops this week during Prague Rooftop Festival, which begins with a party atop the Střecha Radost building on Saturday, May 25. Enjoy breathtaking views from unique venues rarely open to the public and a fantastic atmosphere accompanied by live music and stunning sunsets every Saturday through the end of June. Tickets are available at GoOut.cz.