Welcome to Prague

This festival is one of the most culturally diverse and enjoyable European events for young musicians ages 8-26. Join choirs, bands, and orchestras from around the world at the Young Prague Festival. Since 2002, this festival and competition has given youth choirs, bands, and orchestras the unique opportunity to showcase their talent. Share your skills with over 1,000 other musicians.

Young Prague includes special events hosted by Prague city officials, including ceremonies, concerts and social gatherings for guest ensembles. Additional highlights include competing in spectacular venues such as the National House, performing in the historic St. Nicholas Church, sightseeing in Prague, an evening cruise on the Vltava River, and marching in a festive parade through the heart of the city.

Performance groups can participate in adjudicated or non-adjudicated sections. Whether partaking in the competition or not, the time in Prague is highly rewarding. This time is specifically enhanced by newly formed friendships with youth from many nations.

Exemplifying music as a universal language, Young Prague has welcomed ensembles from Australia, Austria, Belarus, Bulgaria, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, Germany, Indonesia, Ireland, Italy, Norway, Russia, Serbia, Slovenia, Spain, Switzerland, Ukraine, the United Kingdom, and the United States. Ready to get started? Contact us today!

For information about non-festival travel to Prague check out the Custom Concert Tour page.

ST. SALVATOR CHURCH

St. Salvator Church of the Holy Savior is located in Prague’s Old Town Square. The restored early-17th century church is the largest evangelical church in Prague and was founded in 1611. The church has beautiful acoustics and regularly hosts concerts for the public.

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ST. NICHOLAS CHURCH ON THE OLD TOWN SQUARE

A historic church in the heart of Prague’s Old Town Square. Built in the mid-18th century, the white facade of the church is one of the most beloved and iconic buildings in Prague’s Old Town Square. The ornate Baroque church often hosts classical music concerts and has wonderful acoustics.

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NATIONAL HOUSE VINOHRDAY

This striking Neo-Renaissance building in central Prague hosts many concerts throughout the year. The hall is decorated with beautiful murals, and it is the perfect location for the festival competition.

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Day 1: FLY TO PRAGUE

Your Young Prague experience begins with on overnight flight from North America to the Czech Republic.

Day 2: WELCOME TO THE CZECH REPUBLIC!

Your Music Contact International Tour Manager will greet your ensemble at the airport in Prague. Together, travel by private motorcoach to your conveniently located hotel to check-in and refresh.

Gather first impressions of magical Prague on an orientation walk through the “city of a hundred spires.” Scenically situated on the Vltava River, Prague's cobbled lanes and courtyards hold ancient chapels, castles, fragrant gardens, unique shops, and atmospheric cafés. Once known as the conservatory of Europe, you'll be strolling in the steps of musical greats who spent time here, including Mozart, Antoní Dvořák, Leoš Janáček, and Bedřich Smetana.

A welcome dinner celebrates your group's arrival in the Czech Republic!

Day 3: YOUNG PRAGUE FESTIVAL | CONCERT

Following breakfast in the hotel dining room, explore Prague with the help of a local Czech guide. You might visit the Castle District, the largest medieval castle complex in Europe and ancient seat of Czech kings. Alternatively, visit Jewish Prague, which recalls the years prior to World War II when Prague was a hub of intellectual and spiritual Judaism.

Perform you first Prague concert at the magnificent Church of St. Martin in the Wall. The church has been preserved as a nearly intact medieval work that now hosts concerts and exhibitions in its wonderful nave.

A hearty group dinner is arranged at a traditional Czech restaurant where your group can continue enjoying themselves, while ensemble directors are treated to a reception with city officials in the gorgeous Old Town Hall.

Day 4: YOUNG PRAGUE COMPETITION

The festival officially starts this morning at the Young Prague opening ceremony, featuring remarks by the festival committee and a special concert by Cancioneta Praga, one of the most prominent ensembles of young Czech choral singers.

Afterward, festival adjudications are held in the beautiful National House. Ensembles compete in front of the jury and other participating musicians. What a fantastic opportunity to hear a rich variety of music performed from around the world!

The afternoon is for spending time in Old Town Prague with its lively Old Town Square, home of the famous Astronomical Clock. Walk along the Charles Bridge with its striking statues, street musicians, and crafts sellers.

Dinner serving local fare is arranged for your ensemble.

Day 5: PARADE IN PRAGUE

Musical festivities continue with a group sing and colorful parade through Prague’s historic center. Ensembles in traditional costume march by residents and tourists applauding and admiring the multinational procession of young musicians.

Later, public concerts take place. Bands, orchestras, and choirs perform for each other and enthusiastic audiences on stages in the Old Town Square and in lovely St. Nicholas Church.

At night, a farewell dinner is followed by an awards ceremony with entertainment. A celebratory dance party rounds off the night and brings the Young Prague Festival to a close on a high note!

Day 6: FLY HOME OR EXTEND YOUR STAY

Ask us about additional days touring in the Czech Republic or elsewhere in Europe. When it's time to go, we'll send you off with memories to last a lifetime!