Czech Puppetry

Masopust is the Czech equivalent of Mardi Gras - a celebration of eating, drinking and merriment at the end of winter. It literally means meat + fast, and while it has links to the final hurrah before Lent, its origins go back farther - certainly to pagan rituals and, before that, the Bacchanalia.

Two years ago I readied myself for an interview for university, where I had applied to the politics department. I expected the examiners to ask me about democracy, about social policy, about activism. I was surprised when they focused on something I had mentioned as an afterthought: the political dimensions of puppet theater. This was a topic I knew well. Czech political history is full of puppets.

Mirek has two exciting exhibitions happening in Old Town this Christmas season. These showcases highlight his incredible talent and creativity. Christmas in Motion The first exhibition, Christmas in Motion , is located at the Manufaktura toy store on Karlova 26. Here, you can see Mirek's Christmas automata. These unique pieces now feature motors and special sensors, bringing them to life in a way that captivates both children and adults alike. Zvesela / Merry Merry The second

As soon as Advent begins (four weeks before Christmas), Czechs start celebrating the holidays in earnest. Even though this is one of the world's least religious countries, people value Christmas traditions. One of our favorites is the mechanical nativity scene, carved folk art where everyday people, animals and and Czech landscapes overshadow religious imagery. Learn more including how they are constructed at our December Puppet Recipe - our monthly workshops. WHEN: December

On Sunday November 17, we will light a candle to remember the Velvet Revolution, which took place 35 years ago and was initiated by students

How many puppet festivals would you guess a country of 10 million people could support? According to the Czech Loukar ( Puppeteer )...