The St. Martin’s Day celebration in the Czech Republic is a cherished tradition, highlighting the joy of good food and young wine. Historically, it marked the end of the harvest season and allowed landowners to thank their workers. Today, it’s a festive way to welcome the start of winter and, hopefully, the first snowfall. While snow isn’t always guaranteed, the celebration promises excellent wine and traditional Czech dishes every year.
What to Drink on St. Martin’s Day in the Czech Republic
On November 11th at precisely 11:11 am, the first bottles of young St. Martin’s wine are opened across the Czech Republic. These wines, made just weeks prior, feature a fresh, fruity flavor and a lower alcohol content. For a wine to bear the St. Martin label, it must be produced in the Czech Republic from specific grape varieties, including Müller Thurgau, early Roter Veltliner, Moravian Muscat, Blauer Portugieser, Svatovavřinecké (St. Laurent), or Zweigeltrebe, and pass an evaluation by an independent committee. When you purchase St. Martin wine, you’re guaranteed a quality young wine from regions like South Moravia, Mělnicko, and other parts of Central or Northern Bohemia.
What to Eat on St. Martin’s Day in the Czech Republic
Whether celebrating St. Martin’s Day at home or dining out, you can look forward to a special menu featuring traditional Czech dishes. The centerpiece is often roast goose served with red or white cabbage and dumplings. If dining at a restaurant, the meal may start with liver pâté as an appetizer, followed by a rich broth with liver dumplings and noodles. Other classic options include kaldoun soup, shredded goose leg, and red cabbage with apples. These dishes honor Czech culinary heritage and make for a memorable St. Martin’s Day feast.
Where to Celebrate St. Martin’s Day in Brno: Top Events and Wine Tasting on Náměstí Svobody
On St. Martin’s Day, Brno’s Náměstí Svobody transforms into a bustling wine-tasting hub, featuring over 100 wines. Visitors can sample a variety of young wines, including the popular “vino z černého rybízu” (black currant wine), as well as warm red wine and “mošt”—available in both alcoholic and non-alcoholic options. Curious about mošt? Head to Náměstí Svobody to discover this unique Czech drink and enjoy Brno’s festive atmosphere for St. Martin’s Day!
