Military camps, US music and Hurvínek: Pilsen prepares for Freedom Celebrations
The West Bohemian city of Plzeň is preparing for its annual Freedom Celebrations, marking 81 years since its liberation by US troops at the end of World War Two. The six-day event begins next Friday, with a programme combining military history, American music, and family-friendly events.
It was General George S. Patton’s troops who liberated Plzeň in May 1945, and each year the Freedom Celebrations bring that moment in history back to life for a few days. Even though last year marked the milestone 80th anniversary, organisers say they still want to bring something new alongside the traditional highlights.
One of the main changes this year is the relocation of some venues due to reconstruction in the city centre, but organisers say the programme will be as rich as ever. It will officially open on Friday with historic aircraft flyovers and parachute jumps, followed by an evening concert by the Plzeň Philharmonic featuring music by John Williams.
American music will be a strong theme throughout the programme this year. On Saturday, the open-air venue behind the Plaza shopping centre will focus on well-known US artists, performed by leading Czech tribute bands, says Jana Komišová from Plzeň City Hall:
“Since it wasn’t possible to bring the original American bands, we invited the best tribute bands in Czechia. You can look forward to music by Neil Young, Bruce Springsteen, Imagine Dragons, Bon Jovi, and Metallica. To enhance the atmosphere, American post-war cars will also be on display. It will be a ‘Best of the USA’ behind Plaza.”
Military history remains at the heart of the celebrations, says Komišová, with several historical camps set up across the city.
“The main American camp will be in Křižík Gardens, representing the 16th Armored Division, where visitors can see tanks, heavy equipment and how soldiers lived at the time.
“Another key location is the park behind the Plaza shopping centre, with a large camp dedicated to Czechoslovaks who fought with the Allies. There, people can also see a life-size Spitfire model and learn more about the RAF.”
There will also be plenty for children this year, with a special programme dedicated to Hurvínek, a well-known Czech puppet character created in Plzeň in the 1920s by Josef Skupa:
“In cooperation with the Spejbl and Hurvínek Theatre, we’ve created a trail where children can learn about his entire century-long story. The Puppet Museum is also part of the trail.
“Hurvínek’s creator, Josef Skupa, was active in the resistance. We want to highlight the role of culture in resistance and remind people that he actively opposed the Nazi regime.”
The Freedom Celebrations will run in the West Bohemian metropolis from May 1 to 6.
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