Prague, Czech Republic – As the festive season concludes, the streets of Prague witness the annual spectacle of discarded Christmas trees, turning thoroughfares into temporary forests awaiting collection. This post-holiday tradition has persisted, with Prague’s services initiating the task of gathering thousands of Christmas trees scattered throughout the city.

While the first Christmas trees typically appear on the streets after Christmas Day, the surge in discarded trees intensifies around Epiphany, marking a significant wave of disposals. Alexander Komarnický, spokesman for Prague’s services, noted that tree collection usually extends until the end of February.

Cleaning crews diligently navigate the city, collecting discarded Christmas trees and transporting them to designated collection points. Among the largest transfer stations are those situated on Průmyslová, Proboštská, and Puchmajerova streets. A massive pile of smaller and larger trees accumulates at these locations, forming what locals whimsically refer to as “tree madness.”

Despite the challenges posed by the cold weather, the cleanup efforts continue unabated. “It goes slowly in this cold. It could be faster,” remarked Tomáš Beneš, one of the local workers. Nevertheless, the commitment of the employees remains unwavering, even as they confront the daunting task of managing the towering pile of conifers.

The phenomenon of “tree madness” unfolds annually after January 6th, as residents dispose of their Christmas trees en masse. Komarnický revealed that hundreds of thousands of Christmas trees are discarded in the Prague metropolis post-holidays. The disposal process encourages residents to place trees near dustbins and containers without occupying their capacity. Komarnický emphasized the importance of distinguishing between black and colored dustbins, with a preference for the latter. Residents are advised to place trees at designated points the day before waste collection, ensuring a smooth and efficient post-holiday cleanup process in the vibrant city of Prague.

Article by Prague Forum