Where to go for festivals in 2026: The best music, food, and summer experiences

Where to go for festivals in 2026: The best music, food, and summer experiences

With the arrival of the summer months, cultural life moves outdoors. Although the theater holidays are here, boredom is definitely not on the horizon – the main festival season is kicking off. If you and your friends are already planning where to enjoy the best atmosphere together this year, our overview of the top festivals will make your decision easier.

New edition

 
 

SOUL UNION FESTIVAL 2026

The Soul Union Festival 2026 will connect mental health care with support for a good cause. On Saturday, August 15, the historic area of Gabriel Loci in Prague's Smíchov will transform into a space full of movement, music, and inner peace. Attendees can expect a full-day program with yoga classes, breathwork meditations, workshops, lectures, sound healing, and spiritual concerts. This year's edition features an expanded program for families with children and enhanced festival facilities. The proceeds from the entrance fee will go to support children's psychiatric care in Prague. Soul Union thus offers an opportunity to dedicate time to oneself while also supporting a meaningful project.

15.08.2026 | 10.30–22.15, Gabriel Loci, Prague 5 – Smíchov, Entrance: 1,590 CZK, Children under 15 years have free entry when accompanied by a paying adult. Tickets can be purchased at ticketportal.cz www.kapkanadeje.cz/soul-union-2026

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HRADY CZ

Music, historical backdrops, and summer atmosphere – all this connects the Hrady CZ festival, which has been touring the most beautiful Czech and Moravian castles and chateaus for over twenty years. Over eight weekends, it will offer concerts by leading Czech and Slovak performers, accompanying programs, and the opportunity to view monuments from a different perspective. This year's edition will visit Točník, Kunětická hora, Švihov, Hluboká nad Vltavou, Veveří, Hradec nad Moravicí, Bouzov, and Bezděz. Each stop has its unique atmosphere, enhanced by the connection of live music with the historical environment.

10. 7. – 29. 8. 2026. Točník, Kunětická hora, Švihov, Hluboká nad Vltavou, Veveří, Hradec nad Moravicí, Bouzov, Bezděz. www.hradycz.cz

 

XXIII. ProART Festival 2026

From July 27 to 30, Prague's Malá Strana will come alive with a unique combination of dance, music, and theater. The XXIII. edition of the ProART Festival invites the general public to a series of evening performances under the open sky, which will take place in the inspiring backdrop of Werich's villa. Under the motto "Art to Care for the Soul," the program will offer deep artistic experiences and space for inner tranquility.

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Hip Hop Kemp 2026

Hip Hop Kemp returns in 2026 after a six-year break – this time to a completely new environment. The Cosmo area in Výrová near Kralovice, a former rocket base hidden in the forests near Plzeň, will provide a unique backdrop for a two-day gathering of the hip hop community from all over Europe. The festival will again bring live shows from leading international and domestic artists and an authentic atmosphere. August 21 – 22, 2026. Cosmo area, Výrov-Kralovice, Výrov www.hiphopkemp.cz

 

Jazz in the City

Jazz in the City celebrates its 20th edition. This year's festival is infused with strong female energy and international charm, unlike anything the city of Frýdek-Místek has experienced before. The main star of Saturday's program is French vocalist Camille Bertault, whose voice and improvisational talent will captivate everyone. A prominent female Czech jazz personality – pianist and composer – is Kristina Barta, whose playing is expressive, innovative, and full of original themes that bring a fresh perspective to modern jazz. July 24 – 25, 2026, Frýdek-Místek – various locations. www.kulturafm.cz

 

Last Summer Fest

Last Summer Fest is back for the third time at the swimming pool in Kostelec nad Orlicí! On August 28 – 29, 2026, you can expect a two-day open-air event full of music across rap, pop, and electronic genres. The main star of Saturday will be Renne Dang, joined by The Atavists, IAM Oskar, Beira, and others. On Friday, performances will include James Cole & Idea, G1nter, or GUFRAU & MAT213. VIP zone, afterparty, and a family atmosphere in Eastern Bohemia. Don’t miss it! August 28 – 29, 2026 at the swimming pool in Kostelec nad Orlicí. Ticket prices are now 599 CZK for a one-day entry and 1499 CZK for the entire weekend. 

 

Benátská

The area in Vesec near Liberec will transform from July 23 to 26, 2026, into a center of Czech and world music. The 32nd edition of the popular family festival Benátská! with Impuls will welcome the legendary Roxette in a new lineup, as well as local stars like Lucie, Chinaski, and Richard Müller. The traditional Thursday program will pay tribute to the Slovak scene, while Saturday's Adifex stage will be dominated by rap. In addition to great music, visitors can expect top-notch facilities, a VIP zone with a view, and an unmistakable atmosphere in the foothills of the Jizera Mountains. Just gather your crew and go! www.benatska.cz 

 

Boskovice

The 34th edition of the festival for the Jewish Quarter will offer four days of music, theater, film, performances, visual arts, lectures, and discussions, including a program for children. The Boskovice Festival will once again serve as a place for dialogue between the past and the present – a space where the historical backdrop of the city and the Jewish quarter will be filled with contemporary art and current themes. The festival is traditionally open to a wide audience, from fans of alternative culture to families with children. July 9 – 12, 2026. www.boskovice-festival.cz

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Darkshire Festival in the Valley

In a hidden valley, where a stream weaves through forgotten meanders and stars shine through the treetops, the third weekend of August will once again resonate with Darkshire Valley. Darkshire is an alternative audiovisual and music festival that focuses primarily on the genre of drum & bass but also offers overlaps into techno and experimental music. It is known for its unique atmosphere, emphasizing an intimate community, nature, and experiencing music without mobile phones.

August 21 – 23, 2026. Rájenka, Pohořelice 115, Napajedla. www.rajenka.cz

 

Kids Festival

The largest family festival in the region is here! The Grand Live Kids Festival in Čáslav brings the biggest children's stars like Lollipopz, Štístko and Poupěnka, Kája and Bambuláček, or Míša Růžičková. Plenty of attractions, fun, and everything included in the price of a single ticket. Thousands of visitors, an unforgettable atmosphere, and a day everyone will talk about. Capacity is limited – don’t wait! www.kidsfestival.cz
 
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Grand Live Rock Festival

The Grand Live Rock Festival 2026 in Čáslav brings a day full of energy, guitars, and unforgettable shows. On stage will perform Škwor, Harlej, Krucipüsk, Alkehol, Civil Defense, Marie Rezlerová, and others. Expect great sound, a light show, and an atmosphere that will engulf you. Come and experience summer to the fullest – music, emotions, and thousands of people in one place. Tickets are selling fast! Website: www.grandlive.cz
 
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High Jump

It has been 27 years since the first edition of the extreme height diving competition took place in the quarry in Hřiměždice near Příbram. This year, the event will be held on August 7 – 8. Divers from around the world will once again showcase breathtaking performances from heights of up to 20 meters. Highjump is unique for its atmosphere, exceptional location, and a rich accompanying program for visitors. www.highjump.cz
 
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ROCK MOTOL FEST

Enjoy the end of summer in style! The popular ROCK MOTOL FEST announces its 3rd edition, this time as a packed two-day open air. The main headliner is IRON MAIDEN REVIVAL, complemented by bands OCELOT, DEAD DANIELS, TORRAX, RASMANE, LATERS, KULTIVÁTOR, ALIGATOR, EPIDEMY, and AIRSCREW. Come and rock out with the leading domestic rock-metal formations in the unique natural area of the restaurant Železná Panna in Prague 5. September 11 – 12, 2026 Tickets: available online/in advance at the bar, free for children under 15 and ZTP, www.kluboofka.cz/rock-motol-fest-praha-2026
 
 
 

Festival Brod 1995

Festival Brod 1995 is an inseparable part of the Czech festival summer. On Saturday, August 22, it will offer a selection from the Czech-Slovak music scene across genres in Český Brod. You can look forward to Chinaski, Horkýže Slíže, Janko Ledecký, Kapitán Demo, MYDY, Imodium, Trautenberk, or Civil Defense. The festival was created as a tribute to the place from which the legendary Rock for People emerged, and today it is known for its extraordinary atmosphere. August 22, 2026, Areál na Kutilce, Český Brod, www.brod1995.cz
 
 


90s Explosion

The exhibition center will transform on May 22, 2027 into the largest 90’s open-air festival in the heart of Europe. Prague will experience an extraordinary musical event in 2026, bringing together the biggest stars of the nineties on one stage. The 90s Explosion festival returns to the Prague Exhibition Center with a unique concept of a continuous show featuring world-class performers, iconic hits, and an atmosphere that only the true nineties can evoke. www.90sexplosion.com

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Music in the Vineyards 2026

A record number of concerts and two new locations The popular series of open-air concerts "Music in the Vineyards" has had a highly successful year, but the organizers are already announcing new things for 2026. The seventh edition of the event will offer a record 69 concerts, the most in history. Along with that comes an expanded range of performing artists and two brand new locations, of course connected with wine. Annual staples such as David Koller, Queenie, Čechomor, the duo Krhut & Kozub, Wohnout, Tros Discotequos, No Name, and many more will perform on stage. Additionally, Marie Rottrová, Olympic, Kateřina Marie Tichá, Kollárovci, and Tata Bojs will premiere in the vineyards. www.hudbanavinicich.cz

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FEST A PŮL vol.2

The second edition of the open festival, focused primarily on punk music, complemented by related genres such as ska, crust, oi, rock ‘n’ roll, and more, will take place on July 10 and 11, 2026, in Buštěhrad. Among the seventeen performing bands, we can hear three foreign ones, unlike last year when the organizers focused exclusively on Czech quality.  www.festapul.cz

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Fesťáček

In 2026, Fesťáček will head to 11 cities across the Czech Republic, where each stop will welcome thousands of visitors. The festival will gradually visit, for example, Prague, Plzeň, Jihlava, České Budějovice, Hradec Králové, Zlín, Ostrava, Olomouc, Liberec, or Most.
The success of the festival is primarily due to the combination of fun and active involvement of children. The program is designed so that both younger children and older visitors will enjoy themselves, and parents will also have a great day.  You can find the dates for the Fesťáček 2026 festival here: https://festacekfestival.cz/#mesta
 
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Beats 4 Love

The largest electronic music festival in Central Europe is back! From July 1 to 4, 2026, the industrial area of Dolní Vítkovice will come alive with the unique concept of Beats for Love Universe. More than 550 performers will take the stage on over 18 stages, led by star artists Marshmello, Alesso, and Calvin Harris. In addition to top-notch EDM, techno, and DnB, visitors can expect a revolutionary 360° stage, a rich accompanying program, and a strong emphasis on ecology. Experience the unforgettable energy of "People of Love" in the heart of the steel metropolis. Tickets are already on sale! www.b4l.cz

Prague 420

The first edition of the Prague 420 festival after legalization will take place on June 6 and 7 at the Louka Prague area. You can look forward to international headliners including rapper Berner (USA), who will perform in the Czech Republic for the first time, and jungle and reggae legend General Levy (UK), along with local artists such as PTK, H16, Loudz1, Michajlov, Pain, and Magenta or Danzhun. Attractions, education, competitions, over 100 exhibiting brands, plenty of food and fun – that’s Prague 420. www.prague420.com

 

BTC Prague 2026

BTC Prague is the largest bitcoin conference in Central Europe. With a rich program of lectures from leading experts, panel discussions, and networking opportunities, it attracts both investors and technical enthusiasts. Prague thus becomes the epicenter of bitcoin events in Central Europe for several days.  How to buy cheaper tickets? In cooperation with BTC Prague, we offer up to 15% off all tickets – when purchasing, simply enter the discount code MOON.

 

Jatka Fest

Jatka Fest 2026 will bid farewell in grand style. After years, the traditional music festival is ending, with tickets remaining at 850 CZK.

This year's edition will again offer a diverse program featuring prominent Czech and foreign artists. Visitors can look forward to performances by bands: Rybičky 48 / Wohnout / UDG, Iné Kafe / Mňága & Žďorp / Jakub Děkan and others.

More information and tickets can be found at www.jatkafest.cz

 

Mezi ploty

At the festival, which will dominate the park of the Bohnice Psychiatric Hospital on May 30 and 31, this year will perform the stalwart of our music scene, Lucie, which has significantly influenced the development of Czech rock music for four decades. In addition to this extraordinary band, many other musical and theatrical stars have decided to support this event, which has a purpose – and not just the artistic one. Among them are Divokej Bill, No Name, Xindl X, Marpo, Kateřina Marie Tichá, Martina Pártlová, Adam Mišík, Poletíme?, Michal Hrůza, Tomáš Klus, Spitfire Company, Vosto5, or Lukáš Pavlásek. A total of over 100 performers will take the stage across 10 festival stages.  www.meziploty.cz

 

Vysmátý léto

The Vysmátý léto festival is back in full force! It will take place under the walls of Kadaň on June 20, 2026. Visitors can look forward not only to the current pop-hip-hop scene but also to bands that will appeal to older generations, for whom the festival has always been a favorite. The entrance fee is 1190 CZK. More at www.vysmatyleto.cz.
 

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KUTNÁ HORA: A WINTER ESCAPE FROM PRAGUE

Looking for a different side of the Czech Republic beyond Prague? In winter, Kutná Hora slows down and reveals a quieter kind of charm. From November to December, its historic centre brings together medieval architecture, Advent traditions, music, design and the scent of mulled wine. With fewer visitors than in summer, it is an ideal time to explore the city’s heritage at a more relaxed pace.

A story, an artwork, and a piece of history in one book: Kick the can and dance for two days – 100 years of the ROXY phenomenon on 500+ pages.

A book that captivates you even before you open it. "Kick the Can and Dance for Two Days" is a beautiful, lavish publication that transforms the history of the famous Prague club Roxy into an impressive story of Czech music culture and alternative scenes. With over 500 pages, it features hundreds of previously unpublished photographs and archival materials, memories, and interviews with dozens of personalities.

Dagmar Pecková: A voice that conquered the world. And a personality that never feared to speak the truth.

From London's Covent Garden to Berlin and New York. Dagmar Pecková is one of the Czech artists who has made a name for herself on the most prestigious opera stages in the world. However, her story is not just about music, applause, and great roles. It is also about courage, freedom, life twists, and the ability to stay true to oneself. On Monday, October 12th at 7 PM, this exceptional mezzo-soprano will be a guest on the talk show "Hovory Marka Kováře" at the Art-n-Coffee gallery and café in Prague.

PRAGUE THAT FITS IN A SUITCASE

Czech glass, designer jewellery, original artwork or a fragrance created in Prague. A souvenir needn't recall famous landmarks; it can tell the story of today's city and the people who create here. Prague's best-known motifs appear almost everywhere. Still, the city's most interesting mementoes are often found a few streets away, in design shops, small galleries and local artists' studios. Here you can discover a Prague that draws on a strong craft tradition while interpreting it in a contemporary and sometimes surprisingly playful way.

HUMBOOKFEST 2026 WILL BRING MARRISA MEYER, KASIE WEST, AND THE TOP OF THE CZECH YA SCENE TO PRAGUE.

The eleventh edition of the largest Czech book festival for young readers, HumbookFest, will kick off on October 10, 2026, at the O2 Universe in Prague. The organizers are gradually revealing the names of this year's guests, and it is already clear that fans of young adult literature can expect a colorful mix of international stars and local author discoveries. Last year, the festival was attended by over 2,000 visitors, and this year more than fifty authors and guests are expected to participate.

BEYOND PRAGUE: CASTLES AND CHATEAUX WORTH THE JOURNEY

Prague is only the beginning. Beyond the capital, the Czech Republic is filled with hilltop castles, romantic chateaux, magnificent gardens and centuries of stories waiting to be discovered. Some are less than an hour away, others invite you to turn a day trip into a longer journey through the country. From medieval fortresses and royal residences to fairy-tale palaces and hidden treasures, there is an extraordinary variety to explore. So if you have already wandered through Prague Castle and the streets of the Old Town, it might be time to see what lies beyond the city.
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