On 17 November, the Czech Republic commemorates two pivotal events in its history: the Velvet Revolution of 1989 and the brutal suppression of student protests by the Nazis in 1939. Nationwide, commemorative events, discussions, and cultural programmes honour courage, resistance, and the value of freedom.
Today, the Czech Republic remembers the protests of 1989, known as the Velvet Revolution (sametová revoluce). On 17 November 1989, a peaceful student demonstration on Prague’s Národní třída was brutally suppressed by forces of the communist government – becoming the spark that mobilised an entire nation. The founding of the Občanské fórum (Civic Forum), with Václav Havel as the face and voice of the movement, ultimately led to the formation of the first non-communist government in over four decades and to Havel’s election as the last president of Czechoslovakia.
The largest event in Prague is the Korzo Národní, held on Národní třída – the site of the student demonstration that triggered the revolution. Under this year’s motto, “We Have Something to Say” (Máme si co říct), visitors can expect a wide-ranging programme of discussions and exhibitions. Musical highlights include the Czech national anthem performed by Slovak musician Mário Bihári and, traditionally at 17:11, the Prayer for Marta (Modlitba pro Martu), this year performed by Jan Cina.
Alongside Korzo Národní, there is the Festival of Freedom (Festival svobody), coordinating events across the Czech Republic.
Concert for the Future: Koncert pro budoucnost
Another highlight is the Concert for the Future (Koncert pro budoucnost). It commemorates democratic values, freedom, and the legacy of the Velvet Revolution. The five-hour concert begins at 16:30 on Wenceslas Square – the very place where, 35 years ago, the final fall of the communist regime began.
Soundtrack of Prague: Svoboda
The Centre for Architecture and Urban Planning (CAMP) commemorates the role of students during the Velvet Revolution. The audiovisual production Soundtrack of Prague: Svoboda explores student resistance, linking historical footage with aerial views of the city.
Nazi Violence in 1939 Against Czech Students
17 November also recalls events of 50 years earlier. Following the closure of all Czech universities, over a thousand students and university staff were arrested by the Nazis; nine student leaders were executed.
Every year, numerous students and lecturers gather at Albertov in Prague 2 to commemorate these events and celebrate International Students’ Day. Commemorative events also take place at the nearby Hlávkova kolej, where Jan Opletal lived.
