Prague's Astronomical Clock will stop on Czechia's Don't Rush Day

In a symbolic gesture of solidarity with the Czech Republic's Don't Rush Day (Národní den bez spěchu) initiative, Prague's iconic Astronomical Clock will be momentarily halted on Wednesday, April 3, at 10 a.m. The move is part of a broader campaign aimed at raising awareness about the perils of rushing, and particularly speeding while behind the wheel.

Don't Rush Day, spearheaded by the Czech Insurance Association, seeks to encourage individuals, media outlets, cultural and sports institutions, schools, and businesses to slow down and reflect on the dangers associated with haste, especially when driving. This year, April 3 symbolizes a day when various activities will be deliberately delayed to underscore the importance of taking time and avoiding unnecessary risks.

"We give people a little more time to slow down and realize that not everything is urgent, and that it's often better to be a few minutes late than to not arrive at all," explains Jan Matoušek, executive director of the Czech Insurance Association.

Prague's Astronomical Clock, one of the city's most famous landmarks and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, will participate in this symbolic pause. Every hour, the clock traditionally features a procession of apostles, twelve figures appearing in a window.

At 10 a.m. on April 3, however, this procession will be momentarily halted. For each life lost last year due to speeding on Czech roads, the clock's Death figure will toll 138 times during the temporary suspension.

This act is part of a broader initiative supported by various organizations and institutions across the country. The Czech Football Association, for instance, will postpone its main event, the kick-off of the MOL Cup semifinal between Opava and Sparta, to support Don't Rush Day.

Additionally, media outlets such as Czech Television, Evropa 2, Frekvence 1, and Bonton will adjust their broadcast schedules to support the cause. Cultural institutions like Cirk La Putyka, Aerofilms, JATKA 78, and the National Theatre will also delay their performances on April 3.

Universities and businesses are also joining the campaign. Companies such as BMW, MOL, DPD, Rekola, Vodafone, Rohlik.cz, and Intersnack will raise awareness of unnecessary haste in their communications. NN Životní pojišťovna, Allianz, and Generali Česká pojišťovna are among the insurance companies lending their support.

The overarching goal of the initiative is to promote a culture of safety and mindfulness on Czech roads and beyond. By pausing everyday activities and encouraging individuals to reflect on their actions, organizers hope to reduce the number of accidents caused by excessive speed and haste.

A complete list of partners and supporters of the Don't Rush Day initiative can be found on its official website. However, the campaign welcomes participation from all, inviting individuals to take a moment to pause on April 3 and consider the potential consequences of rushing.