Prague will not once again not hold its traditional New Year’s fireworks show on January 1, and the city is not planning any alternative event.
The Czech capital did not host its annual fireworks show in 2021 or 2022 due to the pandemic and related restrictions.
In 2020, the use of firecrackers and fireworks was banned in selected places, such as historic city districts, parks, nature-protected areas, around watercourses, near retirement homes and other social care facilities, and also in the vicinity of the Prague Zoo.
However, the city is instead offering residents a discounted admission fee to several Prague attractions on New Year’s Day.
Locals will be able to visit the zoo and botanical gardens for practically free, only paying a symbolic CZK 1 entry fee, and can see the Public Transport Museum and the seven towers managed by Prague City Tourism for a discounted price.
Visitors will be asked to present a public transport card or ID to prove that they live in Prague. In view of the recent tragedy at the Faculty of Arts many Czech cities have scrapped their plans for fireworks displays or other boisterous celebrations.
Fireworks will not be held in Prague, Brno and Olomouc, among others, on the other hand, Ostrava, Zlín and Plzeň will hold them as planned.
Since 2020, Prague has also tightened the rules for setting off fireworks, with people no longer allowed to set them off in most areas of the city centre.
The use of pyrotechnic products on New Year’s Eve
Fireworks and other pyrotechnic products can cause serious and sometimes fatal injuries. What is more, they can harm not only people but also wildlife, animals in zoos, and pets.
Those who have animals at home know that the loud noise brought about by fireworks can result in intense feelings of fear and panic. These feelings are even more extreme for stray animals who do not have a safe place to hide indoors or a loving owner to offer comfort.
“Sensitive areas”
On its website, the municipality explains that there are several “sensitive areas” where private displays of fireworks are now forbidden. These include the city centre, parks, waterfronts, and areas near hospitals, nursing homes, zoos, animal shelters, and veterinary clinics.
The police will ensure that all citizens follow the decree. Therefore, violations will be subject to fines of up to CZK 100,000.
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