May in Prague is a month where the city shakes off the last of its winter chill and bursts into life. With blooming parks, longer days, and buzzing streets, it’s one of the best times to visit or explore the Czech capital. The city doesn’t hold back when it comes to programming either—May 2025 is packed with events that span culture, music, food, literature, and sports. From centuries-old churches opening their doors at night to riverside beer festivals and world-class orchestras, Prague offers a full calendar for locals and travelers alike.
This guide highlights the main events happening across the city in May 2025. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or staying the whole month, there’s something here worth seeing.
🎶 Classical Music & Performing Arts
May is a feast for music lovers in Prague. From grand orchestras to indie fringe performances, the city becomes a stage for every genre and style.
Prague Spring International Music Festival
Dates: 12 May – 3 June 2025
Location: Rudolfinum, Municipal House, and other major venues
What it is: The most prestigious classical music festival in the Czech Republic, “Prague Spring” attracts top-tier orchestras and soloists from around the globe.
Why go: Expect an elite lineup, including the Czech Philharmonic, and a rare chance to hear Mahler’s Symphony No. 8 live.
Tickets: CZK 80–2,500, with youth discounts available.
Prague Fringe Festival
Dates: 26 – 31 May 2025
Location: Theaters in Malá Strana and Old Town
What it is: A week-long showcase of offbeat theater, comedy, and performance art, all in English or non-verbal form.
Why go: It’s intimate, international, and unpredictable. Ideal for culture hunters wanting something different.
Tickets: Prices vary; festival passes are offered.
🎉 Cultural Festivals & Community Events
Cultural festivals in May bring the city together, spotlighting local creativity, architecture, and spiritual heritage.
United Islands of Prague
Dates: 1 – 3 May 2025
Location: Islands along the Vltava River
What it is: A vibrant, open-air music festival with emerging European talent.
Why go: You’ll discover new music for free, in one of the most unique open-air settings in the city.
Tickets: Free
Open House Prague
Dates: 12 – 18 May 2025
Location: Across Prague
What it is: A week when usually closed buildings—offices, historical landmarks, and more—open to the public.
Why go: It’s your once-a-year chance to peek behind Prague’s architectural curtain.
Tickets: Free
Night of Churches (Noc kostelů)
Date: 23 May 2025
Location: Dozens of churches citywide
What it is: A spiritual and cultural night where churches open up for concerts, art, and reflection.
Why go: A rare mix of history, music, and quiet beauty, often lit only by candles.
Tickets: Free
🍺 Food & Drink Festivals
Spring is the start of beer garden season—and Prague knows how to do it right. Wine, beer, and traditional Czech eats take center stage this May.
Czech Beer Festival
Dates: TBA in May 2025
Location: Letná Park
What it is: The largest beer celebration in the country, with 100+ brews on tap and hearty local food.
Why go: Try rare microbrews and traditional Czech cuisine in a festive tent city.
Tickets: Free entry; purchases via prepaid cards
Rose Wine Festival
Date: 1 May 2025
Location: Hradčany
What it is: A single-day celebration dedicated to rosé wines.
Why go: Rosé in hand, castle views, and early summer sun—what’s not to like?
Tickets: Free
🏃♂️ Sports & Outdoor Activities
If you’re an active traveler or just like watching others run while sipping coffee, May’s sports events bring high energy and outdoor fun.
Prague International Marathon
Date: 4 May 2025
Location: Starts/ends at Old Town Square
What it is: A world-class marathon with one of the most scenic routes in Europe.
Why go: Whether running or spectating, it’s one of Prague’s biggest annual events.
Registration: Required; fees vary
Prague Dragon Boat Festival
Dates: 11 – 12 May 2025
Location: Žluté lázně, Prague 4
What it is: An energetic race event with teams paddling long dragon boats.
Why go: Fun for families, with a carnival-like riverside vibe.
Tickets: Free
📚 Literature & Arts
Writers, readers, and art fans will find their crowd at these thoughtful and inspiring gatherings.
Book World Prague
Dates: 15 – 18 May 2025
Location: Výstaviště Praha
What it is: Central Europe’s biggest book fair, featuring readings, launches, and panels.
Why go: If you love books or publishing, this is the place to meet authors and browse thousands of titles.
Tickets: TBA
Khamoro Festival
Dates: 25 – 31 May 2025
Location: Various venues
What it is: A multicultural festival celebrating Romani music, art, and community.
Why go: Unique concerts, exhibitions, and open-air events that highlight Romani culture and voices.
Tickets: Some events free, others ticketed
Final Thoughts
May 2025 in Prague isn’t just about seeing the sights—it’s about living the city. This month offers a concentrated dose of what makes Prague special: timeless music, unique cultural experiences, joyful street life, and a deep appreciation for art, architecture, and tradition. Whether you’re in it for the food, the performances, or just the atmosphere, there’s something worth stepping into every single day.
Pack a light jacket, get your walking shoes on, and take your time—Prague in May is best experienced at your own pace.
Hello, I am Jan, a travel writer based in the Czech Republic. I specialize in discovering and writing about my homeland—medieval towns, mountain hikes, the local pub scene, and off-the-tourist-radar destinations.
I also write about life as an expat in Czechia—just what it is like to live here, and not just visit. That means the little victories, the cultural surprises, and the daily realities of establishing life in this side of the world. If you’re considering visiting or making the move, I hope to give you an authentic, realistic sense of what life in Czechia is all about.