Expat Expo '09 After Party

The EE09 after party, in association with Anglo-American University, promises freaky fun.

October 31, 2009 marks the inaugural Expat Expo, Prague’s first-ever exhibition designed not only to unite the city’s business sector with consumers, but for community-building and socializing among its expat population. The day-long event is being held at the Holešovice Exhibition Grounds. The celebratory atmosphere will then segue into an evening of ghoulish good times at the Anglo-American University-hosted Halloween After Party at music club Občanská Plovárna. With an expected turnout of 5,000 for the day’s event, the after party is shaping up to be a success—and organizers hope something of an annual tradition in tandem with the exposition.

Says Dana Pick, owner of Prague Solutions, s.r.o and organizer of the Expat Expo: “We thought because Halloween is becoming more and more popular here in the Czech Republic and because it’s such a traditional American holiday it would make sense to have a Halloween-themed party in conjunction with the expo.” As an institution that offers a distinctive university education in the American-British tradition with a heavy focus on business degrees, Anglo-American University’s involvement with the after party also perfect sense, notes Pick. She intends the party to serve a very specific purpose within the EE09 framework—it’s aimed at middle- to upper-management with a strong business/networking bent. Attendees must be 25 + to get in the door. “The expo is very family-oriented,” adds Pick. “But the party is exclusively focused on business connections and interaction.”

Top talent will be on hand to ensure a non-stop party vibe. Host Jiři Ševčík, famous Czech radio personality, musician, and singer will take on emcee duties. DJ Moimir Papalescu of the award-winning band Moimir Papalescu & The Nihilists, and other Czech super groups is slated to perform a best-of-the-’80s-dance-hits set. Saxophonist Peter Venkrbec and friends (Vltava, Combo FH, Psi vojaci, Moimir Papalescu & The Nihilists, and Magnetik) keep things light in the makeshift “casino” with jazz favorites. Jiri Kucerovsky of the Czech pop-rock band, Animé, will go unplugged for an acoustic set.

The Halloween festivities will feature numerous other diversions aside from red-hot musical talent. A table games room will be set-up for those who’d rather gamble than get down on the dance floor; guests can try their luck at winning premium prizes from Anglo-American University as well as other Expat Expo 2009 sponsors. Specially minted Expat Expo currency will be provided for the casino upon entry to the party and is included in the cost of admission.

It wouldn’t be Halloween without a steady supply of treats. The 1,000 CZK cost of admission includes a buffet and beer or wine (with a limit of 5 total drinks per person; additional beer and wine and any cocktails will be cash bar). And, of course, costumes are encouraged. Put forth your sexiest, scariest, silliest effort for a chance to take home the best-dressed prize or simply come as you are and enjoy the party atmosphere in casual attire. Either way, guests will want to take advantage of this prime opportunity to link up with other members of the community in the name of business—and pleasure!