Countdown to Schengen

Celebrations are being planned in towns and villages along the Czech-German and Czech-Austrian borders to mark the country’s entry to the Schengen border-free zone on December 21. There will be street parties and sports events attended by the country’s top politicians. Drivers and pedestrians who cross the border on that day will be given small presents and Schengen information leaflets. Those who stop awhile will be able sample Schengen cakes and Schengen punch. And at midnight there will be a big fireworks display to celebrate the country’s admission to the border-free zone.