On November 17, the Czech Republic celebrates the 35th anniversary of the Velvet Revolution, a pivotal moment in its history that led to the end of communist rule.
The national holiday, also known as the Struggle for Freedom and Democracy Day, will feature commemorative events, concerts, parades, and protests.
Alongside this, the day marks 85 years since the Nazi regime shut down Czech universities, a reminder of the country’s long struggle for democratic freedoms.
To celebrate the nation’s journey to democracy, people attend concerts and speeches, lay wreaths at memorials, or light candles for those who made sacrifices for the country. It is also common to see people dressed up in blue, white, and red, waving the nation’s flag.
Happy Freedom and Democracy Day, the Czech Republic!