U.S. Embassy Warden Message

17^th of November Celebrations Commemorating the Anniversary of the Velvet Revolution

This Warden Message informs U.S. citizens that on November 17, Prague will host events to celebrate the 20-year anniversary of the end of communism.  There will be a commemorative march from Albertov to Narodni Trida from 3:30 pm until approximately 5:00 pm, as well as an open concert throughout the evening.  Police are expecting as many as 20,000 participants at events focusing on Narodni Trida.  Police will monitor this celebration to ensure public safety.  Due to the size and visibility of this event, there is a possibility that extremist groups may attend as well.  As with all large, high-visibility gatherings, the potential for disturbances exists at the primary venue and areas where groups may congregate (e.g., the downtown tourist area and metro stations such as Mustek).  A map of the celebratory march route is attached below.  American citizens are urged to exercise caution during the celebrations and be vigilant for any unexpected disturbances.

Please note that although the U.S. Embassy in Prague will be closed Tuesday, November 17, 2009, a communist group will protest in the front of the Embassy against U.S. military bases in the Czech Republic from 5:30 pm – 7:00 pm.  This event is expected to be peaceful and police will provide extra officers.

We remind American citizens that even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and possibly escalate into violence without warning.  American citizens are therefore urged to avoid the areas of demonstrations if possible, and to exercise caution when in the vicinity of any demonstrations.  American citizens should stay current with media coverage of local events and be aware of their surroundings at all times.

Americans traveling abroad should regularly monitor the U.S. Embassy's website and the U.S. Department of State's Bureau of Consular Affairs website, where the current Worldwide Caution, Travel Warnings, Travel Alerts, and Country Specific Information can be found.  The U.S. Embassy also encourages U.S. citizens to review "A Safe Trip Abroad," which includes valuable security information for those both living and traveling abroad.  In addition to information on the Internet, travelers may obtain up-to-date information on security conditions by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the U.S. and Canada, or outside the U.S. and Canada on a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444.

For after-hours emergencies, please call the U.S. Embassy in Prague at 420-257-022-000.   

American Embassy Prague

420-257-022-000

American Citizen Services Unit