In this wonderfully informative article from ckrumlov.info we learn the famous Lords of Rožmberk (Rosenberg) who once owned the dominion are back! The spirit of the Renaissance age is brought back to life for three days with the hubbub of jousts, craft fairs, medieval music, street plays, and fencing duels to culminate with the highlight of the festival - a spectacular procession in historical costumes featuring knights on horseback and many notables linked with the history of the town. No matter what the age or the expectations of the visitors are, all will certainly enjoy themselves.
History
This festival's tradition stretches way back to the Austro-Hungarian empire times. Their 'fests' were mostly attended by the local German-speaking majority, reflecting the usual population mix of the time. Such was also the case at the great festivities in 1909, celebrating the 600th anniversary of the founding of Český Krumlov. The festivities took place over two days in October, their main guest being the lord of the castle, prince Adolf Josef of Schwarzenberg. The festivities included concerts by the town's orchestras and choirs, and special illuminations. A sumptious historical play was put on at the Town square.
Entry from Český Krumlov town's chronicle, dated 9.October 1909 - Celebrating the 600th year anniversary of Krumlov's founding.
„No other festival has, to this date, been as successful, excellent and unforgettable as this one, that marked the 600th anniversary of 2nd August 1309 when Jindřich Rožmberk granted rights to the Abbot of the Zlata Koruna's Cistercian monastýry for a house named 'civitas' that he built at the Town square. Despite bad weather, the festival worked beautifully, thanks also to the goodwill and enthusiasm of all present."
The idea of such grand historic town celebrations was then forgotten for a long time. Until 1968 in fact, when a new festival was organized. Its most deserving founder was a local thespian, actor, director and scriptwriter, Antonín Zwiefelhofer, who was later awarded a 1st grade merit plaque for his part in the development of Český Krumlov. The Five-petalled Rose Celebrations continued under his directorhip in 1969 and 1970. Then - this time due to the will of authorities - it was forgotten again. The Communists refused to make publicity for feudal lords.
People's desire to return to history and to renew old traditions is, however, endless. Maybe that's why the celebrations surfaced again in 1990, becoming an integral part of Český Krumlov's life now. The new round of festivals has had many organisers in the years since 1990. The present producers of the Five-petalled Rose Celebrations are the Český Krumlov Town council, The Municipal Theatre Český Krumlov, and the Český Krumlov Development Fund.
The program traditionally includes:
Swordplay
Historic market
Historic Costume Parade through the Town
Festive Ceremony
Gothic Tournament
Night of Fire and Night fire Parade throught the Town
Live Chess
Firework
