Holašovice Celebrates Czech Tradition with Peasant Festival and Open-Air Opera

Holašovice, The Gulf Observer: Each summer, the UNESCO-listed village of Holašovice in South Bohemia comes alive with the vibrant sounds, sights, and spirit of traditional Czech culture. Just 20 kilometers west of České Budějovice and near the famed Český Krumlov, this perfectly preserved South Bohemian village transforms into a stage for two of the region’s most beloved events: the annual Peasant Festival in July and an open-air performance of Smetana’s The Bartered Bride in August.

The Peasant Festival, held on the historic village green, is a lively showcase of handmade crafts, folk music, and traditional costumes. More than 200 artisans and vendors set up stalls offering everything from wooden toys and lacework to pottery and jewelry—all proudly Czech-made. “You see different crafts, different goods, and everything is handmade,” explains local guide Julie Kňažková. “It’s not like buying mass-produced items—this is authentic craftsmanship.”

Over the years, the festival has grown to welcome as many as 17,000 visitors over three days. The cultural program features hourly live music performances, including Czech brass bands and folk ensembles, all set against the village’s iconic folk baroque architecture. “With the backdrop of the historic farmsteads, it really feels like stepping back into the 19th century,” says Kňažková.

Following the festival, Holašovice continues its cultural season with a unique outdoor performance of Bedřich Smetana’s beloved opera The Bartered Bride. Now in its fifth year, this open-air event is staged on the village green by the South Bohemian Theatre, offering an immersive experience with historical costumes and interactive staging. “The performance takes place under the sky, and the actors walk among the audience,” Kňažková shares. “It feels as though the village itself is part of the story.”

The combination of preserved architecture, local craftsmanship, and immersive cultural programming has made Holašovice a symbol of living heritage in Czechia. Whether visiting for the bustling summer market or the romantic strains of Smetana’s opera, Holašovice offers a timeless experience of Czech village life—honoring the past while celebrating the present.