Day of Heroes returns to Prague in 2023: Honor Czechia's rescue services this weekend

The eighth edition of Heroes Day at the Exhibition Grounds, set for Saturday, Sept. 23, is a showcase for the integrated emergency rescue system with activities and events designed to teach visitors about the country's public safety efforts via hands-on activities and exhibits.

The event also marks the 30th anniversary of the Czech Republic's independence and significant milestones for rescue services like the Czech Army, Czech Police, and the Fire and Rescue Service of Prague, which celebrates 170 years.

Visitors this year can expect new activities and interactive learning experiences in the areas of the historic Prague Exhibition Grounds with some activities spilling over into Stromovka Park.

"Heroes Day this year introduces new elements, including talks on addiction and internet safety. These additions highlight the importance of preparedness for crisis situations among non-professionals and ordinary citizens. The event continues to expand, aligning with the Week of Heroes dedicated to students," Tomáš Hübl, Chairman of the Board of Directors at the Prague Exhibition Grounds said.

This year sees another significant addition: a collaboration with the sports and charity event organized by the Tereza Maxová Foundation for Children, known as "Move with TERIBEAR." Supporters of this initiative will be welcomed in the outdoor area near the grill section adjacent to Stromovka Park.

The Be a Hero Yourself exhibition will see over 100 vehicles and heavy equipment on display to celebrate the 170th anniversary of the Fire and Rescue Service. Highlights include a Children's Hero Passport with a code-breaking game, competitive teams of professional and corporate firefighters from across the Czech Republic, and special vehicles like Golem, Fénix, and the Polaris all-terrain quad from Prague Emergency Medical Services. Professional teams from across the country will compete in extricating people from crashed vehicles.

"To introduce exciting new elements this year, we've designed special activities for young attendees. Among them is the debut of the educational video 'Karol and Kvído,' a collaborative effort between the Prague Exhibition Grounds and the Integrated Rescue System. This video aims to help children remember emergency numbers more effectively and will be unveiled on Heroes Day, with Karol, one of its co-authors, in attendance," noted Renata Lišková, Manager of the Program Department at the Prague Exhibition Grounds, overseeing Heroes Day and Week.

The Czech Army will also have a presence at the event. As part of the "Preparation of Citizens for State Defense" (POKOS) educational project, the Ministry of Defense's Communications Department has organized competitions for both children and adults. These competitions aim to provide valuable insights into state defense, crisis management, and international organizations.

During Heroes Day, the army will display several vehicles, including the Tatra 815-7 PRAM, Iveco light armored vehicle, and Land Rover Defender 130 Kajman. The 31st Radiation, Chemical, and Biological Protection Regiment will showcase a light armored vehicle for reconnaissance. Additionally, the Military Police will feature intervention vehicles and motorcycles, while students from the Military High School and Higher Vocational School in Moravská Třebová will demonstrate close combat techniques.