Weekend Events in Prague

Masopust celebrations highlight the calendar, as the Czech Mardi Gras-equivalent spawns events around the city. The Žižkov district is home to some of the largest festivities with the annual Žižkovský masopust, which is highlighted by outdoor activities and a massive parade from Jiřího z Poděbrad to Parukářka park on Tuesday 20.2. Events leading up to ‘Fat Tuesday´ take place at various venues over the weekend; on Saturday 17.2, Palac Akropolis plays host to numerous festivities, including children´s theatre in the afternoon and concerts by Lesboys and Tublatanka in the evening. On Monday 19.2, Czech band Abraxas performs at Kino Aero. For a full schedule (Czech only), see: http://www.praha3.cz/article.asp?id=2811

Also taking place over the weekend, lasting until Feb. 20th, Bohemian Carnevale organizes an allegorical parade from Clam-Gallas Palace, with an exhibition of masks, costumes, period hairstyling, and more. Celebrations take place at the Clam-Gallas Palace and around Old Town Square, and include art exhibitions, film screenings, children´s workshops, masquerades, and dining specialties, with a number of high-profile restaurants participating in the proceedings. Fro more information, see: www.carnevale.cz

Music on Friday, Justin Lavash plays his own blend of blues and jazz at Noels Lounge (Cafe Metropole), with free admission and friendly atmosphere. Also Friday, the energetic band Gothart play at Rock Cafe in Národní třída, DJ Matrix (UK) spins at Roxy, and CZ Beat celebrate 1 year of Czech dance. On Saturday, Roxy host a Zen party with special guest, UK´s Max Graham, while Panika! presents a special night of indie music at Club Bordo, with bands Sunflower Caravan (CZ), The Ossis (PL) and support by Polish DJs Indie Riot Grrls.