The Czech Republic is not a very religious country. In fact, we are the second most atheist country in Europe. However, we still do celebrate both major Christian holidays: Christmas and Easter. However, most of us prefer the civil way of celebrating as we love traditions and feasting. Just forget about cute Easter bunnies and painted eggs. In this blog post, you will learn about the most bizarre Czech Easter traditions.
Who writes this?
My name is Dana, and I am the owner and guide for Prague Behind The Scenes; my local tiny business dedicated to sustainable and responsible tourism in Prague. In addition to guiding, I enjoy writing about lesser-known topics related to Prague and the Czech Republic. Today, I’m sharing insights on the most bizarre Czech Easter traditions and activities. Prepare to be amazed by what Czechs do during this festive time and come to visit us!
1. The most bizarre Czech Easter tradition: whipping women with willow branches
Czech Easter is about celebrating forthcoming spring and a new life. What a romantic idea. In reality, our way of celebrating the new life is rather cruel. But fully legal.
During the Easter holidays, men and boys cut willow branches and braid them into whips. Such a whip is called „pomlázka“. It´s made of fresh, bendy branches and decorated with colorful ribbons. With such a whip you can actually enjoy quite a lot of fun. But only if you are a man. On Easter Monday men can legally whip all women in the neighborhood. It may sound weird, but it’s an old, most common Czech Easter tradition.
The word “pomlázka” (whip) is derived from a Czech word “pomladit” which means “to make younger.” The tradition says that the fresh willow rods are full of spring energy that goes straight into the body. So we rather stand a little pain and wait for a miracle!
2. Gifts for whipping: a shot, painted egg or sweet treats
The Easter bizarreness continue! Now comes a unique twist: women are expected to reward men for their whipping. To express gratitude, we offer the guys shots of liquor (typically slivovice, which is homemade plum brandy), decorated eggs, or an assortment of sweet treats.
This annual tradition thrives in Czech villages, where local men visit house after house to whip women of all ages. In urban areas, people tend to be more reserved and reserve the Easter whipping for the home. Rest assured, there’s no need to worry; you won’t find anyone whipping you in the streets of Prague or at your hotel.
3. Pooping Lambs – another quirky Czech Easter tradition
The “Pooping Lamb” tradition is particularly popular among women. Believe it or not, this quirky tradition revolves around shopping! The idea is to purchase and wear something new—like clothes, shoes, or jewelry—on Easter Monday. If you do, the Easter lamb will be sure to skip pooping on you.
It may sound strange and perhaps doesn’t make much sense, but that’s just how we celebrate here. So, go ahead and treat yourself to something new! To prevent the lamb to poop on you. This custom has been a cherished part of our family for years.
There’s no need to splurge on anything extravagant; just choose something that brings you joy. After all the hard work, you deserve it! Ladies, the Easter lambs are definitely on our side!
When Czechs celebrate Easter?
Easter is considered a “movable feast,” meaning its date changes each year and is not tied to a specific day. The most significant celebrations and traditions (whipping) take place on Easter Monday.
Easter in 2025: April 18 – 21
Good Friday and Easter Monday are national holidays in the Czech Republic.
Dana, owner and guide for Prague Behind The Scenes | small-group tours and experiences.
Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions or want to tour with me: dana@praguebehindthescenes.com
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