The weekend is almost upon us and what better way to celebrate then by check out the very best of what one of Prague’s hippest districts has to offer.

View on Zizkov District
View over the Zizkov District

We are of course talking about the district of Zizkov, which over the past few years has firmly established itself as the centre for alternative culture in Prague. Its streets may seem grimy and run down at first glance, but by looking beyond the shabby exterior, you will find an exciting, dynamic and ever-changing community of students, artists, musicians and those who are simply looking for some new adventures. Zizkov has long been associated with rebellion and to this day, its inhabitants are known to refer to it as “The Free Republic of Zizkov”.

To find out more about Zizkov, check out our article about the district, which is full of hints and tips.

So what’s Going on this Weekend?

From March 22nd – March 24th, much of Zizkov will be opening up its doors for the annual “Zizkovska Noc” festival. This is a festival that really represents the essence of the district. It’s sure to be a rich and varied experience, full of surprises and adventures. You will be able to enjoy special events in over 60 of Zizkov’s finest bars, clubs, cafes, theatres, pubs and galleries. The only problem will be squeezing everything into just 3 days and 3 nights.

Zizkovska Noc in Full Swing
Zizkovska Noc in Full Swing

How Does it all Work?

  • You can check out a full event programme on the festival’s website.
  • It is possible to buy a wrist band allowing you access to all Zizkovska Noc Events. This covers all 3 days and costs 500CZK.
  • There is also the option to purchase a wrist band for just one day. This will allow you access to any events taken place on your chosen day and costs 250CZK.
  • Wrist bands can be purchased from any Zizkovska Noc venue.
  • Some venues have a limited capacity, so arrive early if you are desperate to see a particular performance.

What is Worth Checking Out?

If you’re new to the whole Zizkovska Noc thing, one of the best places to start is on the official festival website or on the Facebook group. Here you will find a nice break down of what there is to see. If you’re into music, you’ll be able to browse through a wide range of genres to find something that tickles your musical taste buds. Alternatively, if you’re not one for forward planning and feel like embracing your spontaneous side, a great way to really experience this festival is just by taking a stroll through central Zizkov. The atmosphere is sure to be electric, particularly on Friday and Saturday evening, as hundreds of festival goers weave their way through the district’s distinctive cobbled streets.

The Famous Zizkov TV Tower

Some Recommendations

Palac Akropolis

Where better to experience the heart of Zizkov’s cultural scene than at Palac Akropolis? Built in March 1927, it is probably the district’s biggest and best known venue for music, theatre and art. It was built by architect, Rudolph Svoboda and his words describe the place better than I ever could. He dreamt of building:

an extraordinary house where I would find various spaces with great music, theatre and fine-art. Where would I have meetings, a beer, where could I dance with friends and have fun till the morning. Where would you buy things that you cannot buy elsewhere and where you meet people that you would not meet elsewhere.

Palac Akropolis will be hosting various events especially for the festival, including performances by indie pop band “Ille”, alternative rock band “Kalle” and alternative electro sounds from “Pruvan v Hlave: Naceva, Tentato and Five”.

View of the Palac Akropolis from the Outside
View of the Palac Akropolis from the Outside

U Vystrelenyho Oka

U Vystrelenyho Oka is one of the cosiest and best hidden spots in Zizkov. Warm your toes around the roaring fire, enjoy a distinctly local atmosphere and take in an evening of blues, with everything from psychedelic to Americana.

U Habasku

U Habasku is one of my personal favourite drinking holes in Zizkov. This cellar bar packs a real atmospheric punch, with exposed brickwork, arched ceilings and the gentle flicker of candle light. For Zizkovska Noc, they will be hosting pop punk outfit “Pirates of the Pubs”, in addition to some more laid-back Irish folk vibes from “Chip&Co” and “Odie a Pratele”.

 

 

 

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