Hamburgers, lemonade and apple pie are without a doubt staples on most American picnic tables as we celebrate our country’s independence this 4th of July weekend.

With support from USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS) post in Prague, the citizens of the Czech Republic, too, have been enjoying some of America’s favorite culinary delights during a month-long festival called “Taste of America.”

The festival runs from June 4 to July 4 and is organized by Czech company Alakarte and restaurants and franchises throughout the city. The festivities are supported by the U.S. Embassy’s Foreign Commercial Service (FCS) and FAS Prague.

“Taste of America” is the country’s first celebration to highlight American cuisine. Throughout the month, Czechs have enjoyed meals at 12 featured restaurants, all of which offer an American lunch special for Czech Republic koruna (CZK) 150 - equal to almost $9 - and dinner special for CZK 250 - or nearly $15. Thus far, more than 100 people a day have taken advantage of the specials.

The classic American dishes served throughout the month have included meatloaf, Cajun hamburgers, ribs, turkey with stuffing, cheese steaks, Rueben sandwiches and much more. Beyond food specials, other featured festival activities have included American music concerts, a kick-off event at the U.S. ambassador’s residence sponsored by California wines and an American cuisine seminar where FAS Prague arranged a U.S. wine tasting.

While this festival is the first of its kind in the Czech Republic, FAS Prague hopes it will become an annual tradition because it is great opportunity for American food exporters and businesses to showcase their cuisine and products to international consumers.

Thanks to this festival, traditional American Independence Day fare is also being devoured half way around the world in Prague. Uncle Sam would be proud!

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