It seems that Masopust gets more popular every year. This marks the 13th year the Czech version of Mardi Gras is being celebrated in ŽiĎkov, a neighborhood whose reputation for throwing a good party has gone far beyond the city borders.

"It's not just a Prague thing anymore," says Jaroslav Brabec, chief of the culture department at Prague 3 City Hall. "People start inquiring about the event before we officially announce it. We're even starting to hear from travel agencies that want to organize tours for people living outside of Prague."

The growing interest offers an incentive to change the program, which has given Masopust a new look over the past few years. It's no longer just about indulging in roast pig with plenty of alcohol to wash it down. Now it's a family-friendly celebration at which everybody, child or adult, is encouraged to join in by dressing in costumes and wearing masks. Last year, an entire kindergarten class showed up wearing frog masks — along with the teacher. This year, a mask will get you free admission to most events, and in some cases a small present.

According to Jaroslav Brabec, this year's celebration will be more carnival-like. The festivities kick off Saturday, Feb. 25, at Palác Akropolis with a program beginning at 2 p.m. for children that includes fairy tales, dancing and games with prizes. Admission is free. That evening, Akropolis hosts a mask party for adults beginning at 7, featuring Ivan Mládek and his Banjo Band and other musical guests. The highlight of the evening will no doubt be the competition for the most original mask.

Sunday, Feb. 26, is devoted to the food festival at the famous ŽiĎkov pub U vyst˝eleného oka. As usual, officials from Prague 3 City Hall will be doing the cooking, accompanied by music from ŽiĎkovanka.

On Monday, Feb. 27, the fun moves to Kino Aero. Doors open at 6 p.m. with an exhibition of Masopust posters by local art star Martin Velíšek. The music starts at 7 p.m. with DG 307 and Tony Ducháăek & Garage. There will also be a screening of the short film H˝íšní lidé obce ĎiĎkovské. (Sinners of ŽiĎkov). And of course, you can indulge in roast pork.

The high point of the festival is the parade, which starts at 4 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 28, at Ji˝ího z Podűbrad square. Every year, hundreds of revelers wearing costumes and masks crowd the streets of one of Prague's oldest neighborhoods. Among the promised attractions in this year's parade: music, flags, giant puppets, fire-breathing, Austrian monarchy soldiers and vintage automobiles. If you're wearing a costume and join in the fun, you'll be treated to hot wine, grog and culinary treats along the way. The revelry peaks with a fireworks show at 8:30 — and if you've got any energy left after that, be sure to check out Prague's premier "monster band," Blaq Mummy, which will be playing at the Paruká˝ka beer garden.