Once dismissed in the Czech Republic as an American novelty of plastic pumpkins and store-bought costumes, Halloween in Prague has evolved into something much deeper — a celebration of community and generosity.

At the heart of this transformation is Trick-or-Treat for Charity, a citywide event that brings Czech and international families together to support children in need.

From a Neighborhood Walk to a Citywide Tradition

The initiative began in 2017, founded by Dinah Richter-Spritzer, a journalist turned inclusion trainer. What started as a small neighborhood walk for her children and friends quickly grew into one of Prague’s most loved family events.

“I always wanted all of Prague, all of Czech Republic, all of Europe to participate,” says Richter-Spritzer. “I didn’t realize how much of an impact the event would have on people or how it would bring Czechs and expatriates together.”

Last year alone, the event raised CZK 263,000 for SOS Children’s Villages, funding food, therapy, and activities for vulnerable children.

Changing Perceptions

A decade ago, Halloween faced resistance in Czech society. Many saw it as a foreign intrusion that threatened traditional observances like Dušičky (All Souls’ Day). The backlash peaked in 2023 when a Czech priest famously smashed pumpkins in protest.

Trick-or-Treat for Charity helped shift that attitude by turning the holiday into a gesture of kindness rather than consumerism.

“Halloween isn’t originally a Czech tradition,” says Prague 2 councilor Tomáš Halva. “But it’s not about replacing anything. It’s about creating a fun and imaginative space where children can discover another culture.”

How the Event Works

• Families register online and receive a map of participating homes and businesses.

• Children donate CZK 10 at each stop instead of collecting candy.

• All proceeds go to SOS Children’s Villages, funding food, therapy, and recreation.

Kateřina Holečková from SOS explains how the donations help:

“Our SOS Kyota Club recently celebrated Children’s Day with a carnival and summer sports programs. Kids learned teamwork, patience, and persistence thanks to the support we receive.”

A Growing Community Effort

Now in its ninth year, Trick-or-Treat for Charity has grown beyond its expat roots. Czech families now form a major part of the participants, and many local businesses sponsor candy stops or donate prizes. All materials — from flyers to social media posts — are bilingual.

“Using the event to showcase local businesses is absolutely wonderful,” says Richter-Spritzer. “That’s been a key evolution.”

The initiative even caught the attention of political figures. “There was a moment when I saw the head of the Pirate Party walking around and participating,” recalls Dinah. “That’s when I knew we’d made it.”

Event Details 2025

• Date: Thursday, October 23, 2025

• Time: 4 p.m. – 8 p.m.

• Districts: Vinohrady, Žižkov, and Vršovice

• Donation: CZK 10 per stop (supports SOS Children’s Villages)

• Register: Follow @praguetrickortreat on Facebook or Instagram

What’s New This Year

Under new organizer Eva Horčičková, the 2025 edition introduces fresh activities such as:

• Children’s disco

• Craft workshops

• Face painting and obstacle courses

• Airbrush tattoos and lightsaber duels

“It’s amazing to see this initiative grow every year,” says Holečková from SOS. “We’re truly grateful to everyone who helps make it possible.”

A Celebration of Kindness

Councilor Halva summarizes the spirit of the event best:

“We do this for both expat and Czech families. Through play, laughter, and shared experiences, communities connect naturally. At the end of the day, it’s all about the kids.”

Trick-or-Treat for Charity proves that even a foreign holiday can become a local tradition — one rooted not in fear or skepticism, but in giving and togetherness.