August 2024: Everything you need to know this month in Czechia

Burčák, a partially fermented grape must, will be available earlier this year, with some winemakers starting sales on Aug. 1. The accelerated vegetation season led to an early harvest, with winemakers evaluating this year’s yield as better than previous years. Despite earlier mold issues, recent warm and sunny weather ripened the grapes well. Prices should start at CZK 90 per liter before dropping to CZK 80.

On the weekend of Aug. 3 and 4, metro service on part of Prague’s Line A between Dejvická and Náměstí Míru stations will be suspended for modernization. The Prague Public Transit Company (DPP) will install a new security device and upgrade the system’s software. Passengers should plan alternative methods of transportation. Earlier this year, DPP previously interrupted service on lines A and C for similar upgrades and maintenance. For all planned disruptions, see here.

The 2024 Summer Olympics kicked off earlier this month, with over 100 Czech athletes vying for medals. In the Czech Republic, the largest fan zone to watch the games is in Most, where a mini version of the Eiffel Tower has been erected. In Prague, the popular beer garden at Riegrovy Sady will televise the Olympics every day of the action on its big screen; entry is completely free, with reservations possible but not mandatory. At home, most events can be streamed on Max. The closing ceremony is Aug. 11.

With summer slowly winding down, it’s time to stock up on big-name retailers’ enticing end-of-season deals. Summer sales in Czechia typically reach a fever pitch in August with discounts reaching up to 70 percent (make sure, however, that that deal is legit!). Now is the time to hit the shops for everything from camping gear and luggage to shorts, sandals, and swimwear. Fashion Arena Prague Outlet holds its Final Summer Sales from Aug. 15-18.

The Letní Letná festival will feature two Czech premieres and celebrate the anniversaries of Cirk La Putyka and Losers Cirque Company from Aug. 15 to Sept. 1 in Prague. Highlights include La Putyka’s legendary show and Losers’ unique edition performance. New acts by Jan Jirák and Ivana Kolcunová will debut. The festival also offers a family program and free open-air shows, with tickets available on their website.

On Aug. 20, 1968, Soviet-led Warsaw Pact troops invaded Czechoslovakia to halt reforms in Prague, surprising the world and swiftly taking control. The invasion reinstated a pro-Soviet regime, quelling liberalization efforts and enforcing censorship This year, a newly released film, Vlny (The Waves), will commemorate this historic event. The film immerses viewers in 1960s Prague, highlighting student revolts and rock and roll. In the Czechoslovak Radio newsroom, led by Milan Weiner, young Tomáš navigates the dangers of secret services. Premieres in Czech cinemas Aug. 15.

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, 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. The event emphasizes a unique experience over competition, with ambassadors revealing locations along the way.

Starting in September, the ban on operating 1st and 2nd-emission-class boilers will take effect. Applications for boiler subsidies or New Green Savings program must be submitted by Aug. 31. Fines for non-compliance start in September, with inspections by local authorities. Interest in subsidies has surged, with 4,172 applications from June 2023 to May 2024. Low-income households receive ongoing support; others can get reduced subsidies for eco-friendly replacements.

During the final week in August, preparation week for teachers and student reexamination takes place in the week before school officially starts. Teachers and administrators are on-site and often available to speak with parents by appointment.

Lunches can be prepaid, and lunch cards or chips can be acquired at school cafeterias. This period is also used to reexamine students who failed one or more compulsory subjects to determine their advancement in the upcoming school year.