Eat, Drink, Masopust!

The period before Lent is a time to eat big, and to eat meat. The celebrations for Masopust – the local incarnation of Carnevale – span several weeks nationwide, with the biggest events centering on colorful street parades both in Prague and farther afield. But the entire pre-Lenten season, this year from February to early March, is full of festivals that allow for jovial drinking and dining in the run up to the Lenten fast. The events here play on the Masopust tradition of pork in its many, many forms and range from family-friendly fanfare to elegant costume galas.

Traditional zabíjačka in Holesovice
Not for the faint of heart, the traditional zabíjačka is a staple of Masopust festivities, and Restaurace Na Střídačce in Prague 7, close to Vystaviste, is hosting a full-day event Saturday, Feb. 8. The specialties will all be prepared onsite, and will include zabíjačka goulash, boiled and baked meats, as well as jitrnice, jelita and tlacenka (brain). In addition to being served up at the restaurant, fresh meats can be purchased and taken home. For those not stuffed to the gills with pig products, there’ll be dancing and live music provided by a traditional Bohemian band. For more info or to make a reservation, call 736 641 566.

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Neighborhood street festivals
Most neighborhoods across Prague have their own Masopust celebrations in the run-up to Lent, taking place either on local squares, a series of streets or at a favorite local pub. The largest and most popular take place in Žižkov and Malá Strana. The Žižkov Masopust (March 4), now in its 21st year, is the longest-running and features a market gathering on náměstí Jiřího z Poděbrad, a parade through the streets and farmers’ market stands serving traditional pastries, beers from several microbreweries and zabíjačka specialties. Highlights include a program for children at Palac Akropolis, children’s films at Kino Aero and the traditional Masopust feast at the cult pub U Vystřelenýho voka.

Out in Prague 10, Touclův dvůr, an eco-farm and events center that specializes in educational activities for children, among other things, hosts a Masopust celebration on Saturday, March 1, from 1 to 5 p.m. Fit for the whole family, the day will feature a costumed parade for participants through the streets of old Hostivař and a lineup of theater and music with a Masopust menu served in a re-created Baroque pub. Food items include blood and white pudding, cracklings and egg salad, homemade desserts and beer from the Žatec brewery.