The Magic of the Five-Petalled Rose Festival

The festival honors the legacy of the Lords of the Rose. For centuries, this family ruled the region with power and grace. Today, locals and visitors wear stunning period costumes to show their respect. You can find many authentic experiences in Cesky Krumlov during this time. The atmosphere is vibrant and full of energy. Musicians play ancient instruments while jugglers entertain the crowds on every corner. It is a sensory experience that brings history to life.

Walking through the town feels like stepping into a painting. The narrow cobblestone streets are perfect for the historical parades. You will hear the sound of horses and the clinking of armor. The town's architecture provides the perfect backdrop for these festivities. It is one of the most popular events in the Czech Republic for a reason. Planning ahead is essential to enjoy every moment of this grand celebration.

10 Highlights in This Five-Petalled Rose Festival Guide

This list highlights the most iconic events you cannot miss. Each activity offers a different glimpse into the town's rich past. Make sure to check the daily schedule when you arrive. Events happen simultaneously across various squares and courtyards.

• Best overall: The Grand Costume Parade
• Best for families: The Living Chess Game
• Best for action: The Knightly Tournament
• Best for foodies: The Renaissance Marketplace

1. Name: The Grand Costume Parade Type: sight Why go: This is the festival's most famous event. Hundreds of people in historical dress march through the streets. Best for: Photographers and history lovers. Where: Old Town streets and Latran. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Included in festival ticket. Getting there: Walk to the main street early. Tip: Find a spot on the Latran district hidden gems route for fewer crowds.
2. Name: The Knightly Tournament of the Rose Type: activity Why go: Watch skilled riders compete in medieval games. It features jousting and incredible horse stunts. Best for: Families and action fans. Where: Brewery Gardens. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Usually requires a small extra fee. Getting there: Short walk from the town center. Tip: Arrive 30 minutes early to get a good seat in the stands.
3. Name: The Living Chess Game Type: experience Why go: Human figures act as chess pieces on a giant board. The game tells a story of local legends. Best for: Those seeking unique cultural theater. Where: Castle Garden or Rotating Auditorium area. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Included in festival ticket. Getting there: Walk up through the State Castle and Chateau Český Krumlov. Tip: The performance is in Czech, but the action is easy to follow.
4. Name: Renaissance Marketplace at Svornosti Square Type: experience Why go: Buy handmade crafts and taste traditional food. The market smells of roasted meat and sweet mead. Best for: Souvenirs and local snacks. Where: Main Town Square (Svornosti). Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Free to browse; items vary. Getting there: Central location in the Old Town. Tip: Try the "Trdelník" pastry for a classic local treat.
5. Name: Midnight Fireworks Display Type: sight Why go: A spectacular show lights up the castle towers. It is the grand finale of the Saturday program. Best for: Romantic couples and late-night revelers. Where: Visible from the river banks or castle bridges. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Find a spot near the Vltava river. Tip: The Cloak Bridge offers a stunning view if you can get there early.
6. Name: Historic Fencing Demonstrations Type: activity Why go: See experts perform choreographed sword fights. They use authentic weapons and armor from different eras. Best for: Fans of martial arts and history. Where: Various small squares and courtyards. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Included in festival ticket. Getting there: Follow the sound of clashing steel! Tip: These shows are very interactive and great for kids.
7. Name: Craft Workshops at the Monasteries Type: activity Why go: Learn how to make traditional items. You can try calligraphy or pottery in a historic setting. Best for: Creative travelers and children. Where: Monasteries Cesky Krumlov. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Varies by craft. Getting there: Located in the northern part of the Old Town. Tip: These workshops are a great escape if it starts to rain.
8. Name: Gothic and Renaissance Dance Type: experience Why go: Watch elegant dancers perform courtly routines. The costumes are incredibly detailed and beautiful. Best for: Art and dance enthusiasts. Where: Castle courtyards. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Included in festival ticket. Getting there: Walk through the main castle gates. Tip: You might even be invited to join a simple circle dance.
9. Name: Medieval Tavern Feast Type: experience Why go: Eat like a king in a candlelit cellar. Many restaurants offer special festival menus. Best for: Groups and hungry travelers. Where: Traditional medieval tavern dining spots. Time: 2 hours. Cost: 500-1000 CZK per person. Getting there: Most taverns are in the Old Town cellars. Tip: Book your table weeks in advance for festival dates.
10. Name: The Torchlight Procession Type: sight Why go: A moody and atmospheric parade held after dark. The fire creates a truly ancient feeling in the streets. Best for: Night owls. Where: From the Castle down to the river. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Included in festival ticket. Getting there: Follow the crowd toward the castle at dusk. Tip: It is very crowded, so keep your belongings secure.

Practical Tips for the Five-Petalled Rose Festival

Attending the festival requires some planning. The town becomes very busy during these three days. You should buy your festival wristband at the entrance gates. This pass gives you access to all the main events and historical zones. Most visitors stay for the full weekend to see everything. It is a good idea to wear comfortable walking shoes for the cobblestones.

Accommodation fills up months in advance. If the town is full, look for hotels in nearby villages. You can also visit the Castle Baroque Theater during your stay. This theater is one of the oldest in the world. Remember that the town center is closed to cars during the festival. Use the designated parking lots outside the historical center.