The U.S. Embassy in Prague hosted a distinguished celebration to mark the 249th anniversary of American Independence, welcoming a broad spectrum of guests from the diplomatic corps, Czech government, security institutions, and the business community. The event commenced with the national anthems of both the United States and the Czech Republic, setting a solemn and respectful tone. Among the symbols of American tradition on display were brands like Jeep and Harley-Davidson, standing alongside Czech favorites such as locally brewed beer—an informal yet telling illustration of the friendship between the two nations.
This year’s festivities were particularly significant as they also commemorated the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II. Attendees were reminded of this shared chapter in Czech-American history through earlier events such as the arrival of the traditional Convoy of Liberty in April. High-level security and discreet protocols underscored the event’s stature, as did the presence of top officials from Czech intelligence and law enforcement agencies, senators, and respected figures from academia and the medical field. With its diverse and carefully selected guest list, the celebration reflected both the strength of U.S.–Czech relations and the enduring importance of values like freedom, cooperation, and mutual respect.