Founded in 1946, Prague Spring is the Czech Republic’s largest and most celebrated classical music festival, welcoming renowned orchestras, conductors, soloists, and chamber ensembles from around the world. The 2026 edition takes place from May 12 to June 3 in some of Prague’s most magnificent concert venues, including Municipal House and the historic Rudolfinum. As tradition commands, the festival opens with Bedřich Smetana’s iconic Má vlast, paying tribute to the composer on the anniversary of his death. This year’s opening celebrations extend beyond the concert halls and invite the public to experience Prague Spring in the open air. On May 12, the traditional tribute to Bedřich Smetana at Slavín Cemetery in Vyšehrad Cemetery will ceremonially launch the festival with fanfares, choral performances, and speeches honouring the father of Czech music. Later that day, the popular Prague Spring Open Air returns to Riegrovy Sady with a lively afternoon programme for visitors of all ages, featuring interactive musical performances, children’s entertainment, concerts, and a live screening of the official opening concert from the magnificent Smetana Hall of the Municipal House. On May 13, audiences can once again experience Smetana’s Má vlast performed by the Czech Radio Symphony Orchestra under the baton of acclaimed Czech conductor Petr Popelka.
The 2026 programme promises weeks of exceptional musical experiences ranging from grand symphonic concerts and intimate chamber recitals to contemporary works and cross-genre collaborations. Leading Czech and international orchestras, celebrated conductors, and rising young talents will perform across Prague in a festival that blends tradition with artistic innovation. Visitors can expect unforgettable evenings filled with the music of Smetana, Dvořák, Beethoven, Mahler, Mozart, and many other legendary composers, all presented in the unique atmosphere of Prague’s historic concert halls.
Elegant, inspiring, and deeply woven into the cultural identity of the city, Prague Spring is far more than a music festival — it is one of the defining cultural events of the Czech year. Whether you are a devoted classical music lover or simply looking for an unforgettable evening in one of Europe’s most beautiful cities, Prague Spring offers a rare opportunity to experience Prague at its most sophisticated and atmospheric. Discover the full programme, ticket information, and upcoming highlights and let the sound of Prague accompany your spring journey through the city.
Find tickets, programme and more information at festival.cz
