#SignalFestival, #Prague, #FestivalofLights, #CzechRepublic
IBNS: Popular as the ‘City of A Hundred Spires’, Prague, capital of the Czech Republic, wakes up to an extravaganza of light and art after dark for a few days every October.
Known as the Signal Festival, this annual light and multimedia festival transforms the historic streets and landmarks of the capital city into a mesmerizing display of art and technology.
Said to be one of Europe’s best festivals of light, it is an amalgamation of art, technology and urban space.
For a decade, the festival has been showcasing light installations, multimedia performances, and interactive art exhibitions.
This year, to mark the completion of a decade, the festival organisers have decided to expand the vision to focus on ‘the world and its diversity’.
‘Nature, technology, society, culture – all of these combine to form the ecosystems in which we live and search for traces of joy, beauty and the excitement of new discoveries,’ the organisers mentioned on the website.
In 2023, the Signal Festival (October 12 to 15) will not only illuminate Prague’s streets, public buildings and popular historical monuments but also go beyond the usual main festival routes.
How to enjoy the Signal Festival?
Plan your visit: The festival spans multiple days and venues. Therefore, chart an itinerary around the city to see the best displays.
Acquire a map: To find your way through the maze of installations, arm yourself with a festival map or download the Signal Festival app (which also contains a digital map).
Follow the paths: There are paths to direct visitors to the most captivating installations.
Culture and cuisine: There will be live cultural programmes across venues in the city (some are free while some are ticketed); in between the explorations, pay a visit to a local café or any of the food stalls set up on the festival route to indulge in local favourites.
Plan a tour of Czechia
If you have time in hand, you may also plan a short tour of the Czech Republic, often lovingly referred to as Czechia.
Known for over 1200 castles, 16 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, thermal spas, and more, the country is an explorer’s delight.
Apart from Prague, Czechia has picturesque places like Český Krumlov, South Moravian region – Brno and the beautiful cultural Landscape the Lednice – Valtice complex, etc.
Indian passport holders can apply for a short-term (Schengen) visa up to 90 days to visit the Czech Republic.
