Learn all about Victory Day
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| Hello, and welcome to the "Culture Class—Holidays in the Czech Republic" series at CzechClass101.com. In this series, we explore the history and traditions behind Czech holidays and observances. I’m Michael, and you're listening to Lesson 17, Victory Day—Den vítězství. |
| On May 8, the Czechs celebrate Victory Day, or Den vítězství as it is known in Czech, to commemorate the end of World War II in Europe. As history has it, the final battles of the war took place in the Czech Republic, particularly in Prague. |
| Now, before we go into more detail, do you know the answer to the following question? |
| Apart from Prague, do you know where the resistance war was fought? |
| If you don't already know, you’re about to find out, so stay tuned! |
| To this day, there is still disagreement among Czechs about when to celebrate Victory Day. The Nazis surrendered on the night of May 8, but the fighting in Prague didn’t completely come to an end until May 9, or in Czech, 9. května. Moreover, the official signing of surrender took place in the Soviet Union, so due to the time difference, the papers were technically signed on May 9. |
| However, since the ‘90s, this holiday has been celebrated on May 8. Since Victory Day celebrations are officially recognized, ceremonies, including the laying of commemorative wreaths—or pamětních věnců—in remembrance of war victims, are observed by more than just a few—political leaders, war veterans, political prisoners and the general public are all present at these events. |
| At some Victory Day celebrations, you can also see history enthusiasts and military reenactors reconstruct famous battles from the era in period uniforms. This activity is particularly beloved by many of its spectators. |
| The symbol of this holiday is the lilac, or šeřík, which blooms during this period. Prague residents shower these flowers on the Red Army soldiers, or vojáky Rudé armády, as they march past. |
| Now it's time to answer our quiz question— |
| Apart from Prague, do you know where the resistance war was fought? |
| At the end of the war, the partisans groups were most active in the region of East Moravia—in the Hostýn highlands and the Beskydy highlands. |
| Well, listeners, how was this lesson? Did you learn something new? |
| Have you ever seen or taken part in a historical reenactment? |
| Leave a comment telling us on CzechClass101.com, and I’ll see you in the next lesson! |
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