Every year in November, Czechs celebrate St Martin’s Day, a festival that marks the transition from autumn to winter. On 11 November, families and friends gather to enjoy the traditional St Martin’s menu in a festive atmosphere. Historically, this day symbolised the end of the agricultural year, and landowners thanked their workers with a festive meal and the payment of wages. Today, the festival stands for joy, enjoyment, and socialising.
Almost every restaurant in the Czech Republic offers a specially created St Martin’s menu in mid-November. Roast goose, a centuries-old tradition, takes centre stage. The menu often includes starters such as liver pâté, a hearty broth with liver dumplings and noodles, and the classic roast goose as the main course, served with red or white cabbage and dumplings. For drinks, young St Martin’s wines or specially brewed beer specialities are available.
The First Wine of the Year: Svatomartinské Víno
At 11:11 a.m. on 11 November, the first bottles of ‘Svatomartinské víno’ — the young wine of the new vintage — are opened in the Czech Republic. This wine is characterised by a fresh and fruity note and is made from special grape varieties such as Müller-Thurgau, Roter Veltliner, and Moravian Muscat. An independent commission examines the wines before they are allowed to bear the coveted ‘Svatomartinské víno’ label.
On Saturday, 9 November, the ‘Svatomartinské slavnosti a pečená husa’ — a popular event dedicated to the enjoyment of roast goose and St Martin’s wine — will take place on the banks of the Vltava River in Prague. The event starts at 10 a.m. and attracts locals and tourists who want to experience this autumn tradition.
St Martin’s Day is an experience for all the senses and a perfect opportunity to enjoy a meal with family or friends in a restaurant or to attend one of the many festive events. Don’t miss out on the culinary delights and the first taste of the new vintage!
