Brno – Festival Marathon 2011

Known as Starobrno Ignis Brunensis, this festival in the Czech city of Brno takes place from 27 May through 12 June. Brno becomes a meeting place in Moravia. Starobrno Ignis Brunensis is a cultural festival in the Czech Republic, offering variety, entertainment, relaxation, fireworks, history and fun for everyone. It also invites visitors to explore science, art and tradition.


Several events are on the programme in 2011. The festivities get under way with Children’s Days in Brno, held from 27 May to 10 May in the city centre, the town park and many other locations, with fun, activities, hands-on events and educational interactions. In this way, children of all ages are introduced to a part of the city’s history through exciting games as they make their way around town. From 10 to 12 June, the Technical Museum in Brno opens its doors to a unique exhibition. This year, the museum is using the festival in Brno to celebrate its own 50th anniversary as well. The museum is putting together a brilliant exhibition of exhibits and unique pieces at various locations across the city. Brno’s municipal transport company is also celebrating an anniversary during the festival—in this case, its 65th. The city is thus adding another venue to this event in the Czech Republic. On 28 May, the boat service presents three new vessels and offers those interested a unique glimpse of the technology and logistics behind the electric boats on one of the most popular reservoirs in the Czech Republic, the Brno Reservoir. Historic trams, buses and the trolleybuses for which Brno is known will evoke nostalgia from 11 to 12 June. The horse-drawn tram also showcases the charm of 1889, alongside the once popular and unique Caroline steam tram. In front of the main railway station, vintage cars, childhood dreams of motorcycles and memories of the first steam-train journeys bring an unbeatable historic atmosphere back to life.

Many locations in Brno will provide entertainment during the festival. Freedom Square, however, will be the main venue, with only the grounds of Špilberk Castle offering serious competition. Here, visitors can discover craftspeople, fairground entertainers, vintners, culinary delights, historic crafts and a unique fair. For many visitors to the festival marathon in Brno, a highlight will be a visit to the Brno festivities at historic Špilberk Castle, whose traditional events and artisan workshops make it a very appealing destination for an excursion.

Other highlights of the 2011 Brno Festival include Church Night, Mozart for Children, the Balloon Festival and the spectacular fireworks display eagerly awaited each year.