Kosek Bandstand

Ladies and gentlemen, friends and neighbors—welcome to Cedar Rapids’ beloved Houby Day Festival!

Today we gather to celebrate tradition, culture, and community, and there is no better way to start this day than with the music that brings us all together. Nearly five decades ago, in 1978, a group of talented musicians came together for one simple reason: the pure joy of making music. That spirit still lives on today.

They came from many backgrounds—Czech, Irish, German, Dutch, and Italian—and together they formed something truly special. The name Czech Plus was a natural choice, honoring their Czech roots while celebrating the rich blend of cultures that define their sound and our community.

Over the years, Czech Plus has grown and evolved, earning statewide acclaim as Ethnic Folk Artists by the Iowa Arts Council. Their music doesn’t just entertain—it connects generations, preserves heritage, and invites everyone to tap their feet, clap their hands, and feel at home.

Houby Day Festival is about family, friendship, and fun. It’s a festival that draws people from across Iowa and beyond, and it wouldn’t be complete without the joyful, authentic music of Czech Plus Band setting the tone.

So whether you’re here for the mushrooms, the memories, or the music, we invite you to relax, enjoy, and celebrate with us. Please join me in giving a warm Cedar Rapids welcome as we kick off Houby Day Festival with Czech Plus Band! 🎶

Video Link Czech Plus Band

Matthew Kane is a Cedar Rapids born Virginia raised, American country music singer, songwriter, bass guitarist, musician, and record producer. Matthew grew up in Roanoke, Va. Matthew and his band GREENBRIER hit the ground running in 2001 playing shows in all the Country Dance halls, Fairs, bars and honky tonks in Iowa. In 2006 Matthew released his 1st single to country radio called "WHERE I WANT TO BE". That year he opened for Exile, Keith Anderson, lone Star, Neal McCoy, 38 special and Charlie Daniels finishing out the year with a 30,000 plus crowd at the Iowa speedway grand opening and Rock fest Where he was asked to open for Lynyrd Skynyrd. In 2010 Matthew released "BROKEN BOW", " LET ME STAND BESIDE YOU". Both songs were aired on IHart radio and have been heard around the world. This lead to shows in Nashville Tn. Chicago, Los Angeles. In 2021 Matthew recently released five new songs 1 song was created by a band called U2 " EVERY BREAKING WAVE". and a song made famous by The Eagles " SEVEN BRIDGES ROAD". Then followed that up with three new original songs written by Matthew Kane.

Chalkfest Facebook Event Link and sign up

🎨 2026 Houby Days Chalkfest

We’re excited to welcome artists of all ages and skill levels to our 2026 Chalk Art Event! This will be a fun, creative, and community-centered day and we can't wait to see what you create. We have limited spots available. This interest form is not first come, first served, so please take your time and share your info thoughtfully. Everyone is welcome to submit, and we’ll be reviewing all entries after the April 30th submission deadline.

Our goal is to curate a diverse and inspiring group of artists, and we’re excited to learn more about you and your work. After the deadline, you’ll receive a follow-up email with more information, the next steps, and confirmation if you’ve been selected to participate.

🎨 Space & Setup:

• You are welcome to use the entire space provided for your design - however, please stay within your space.

• Minimum size: 4 feet x 4 feet (you can request your desired size below)

• Keep in mind: your square will be placed side by side with other artists, so plan your layout accordingly.

• Teams may include up to 2 people maximum. No larger groups, please.

• Tents are not allowed, but you may bring a tip jar.

🖌️ Supplies & Chalk Guidelines:

• Chalk will NOT be provided, but professional-grade, non-toxic chalk is available for purchase (up to $20) and will be billed before the event. Please indicate in the form below if you'd like to purchase chalk through the event. It will NOT be available for purchase day of.

• Only solid-form chalk pastels are allowed.

• No crushed chalk, chalk mixed with water, or any other mediums (e.g., paint, markers, ink, etc.) may be used.

• All chalk must be non-toxic and safe for outdoor, public spaces.

• You must sign in by noon or forfeit your chalk square.

🎯 Content Guidelines:

• Artwork must be family-friendly and appropriate for all ages.

• No political, violent, graphic, or inappropriate themes will be allowed.

• No advertisements.

• If you're recreating a piece, please credit the original artist.

• Event organizers reserve the right to remove or modify any art that does not align with community standards.

👩‍🎨 Who Can Participate:

• Artists of all ages are welcome! If you or your teammate are under 18, a parent or guardian’s name is required.

• Students are encouraged to participate.

• Whether you’re a first-time participant or a seasoned chalk artist, we’d love to see your work!

📌 What You’ll Need to Submit:

• A sample of your artwork (photo or upload).

• A short paragraph about your experience or interest in chalk art.

• Contact information so we can send you updates and event instructions.

This event is proudly brought to you through a collaboration between local chalk artists and the Czech Village Association.

If you have any questions about the event, please reach out to: 📧 Lana Sellner at lanagrace@gmail.com

9:00- 10:00      Opening Ceremonies at Kosek Bandstand

Czech Plus Band, Flag Raising, American Legion

Join in the fun with Five Seasons Chamber Music with some enjoyable entertainment, while browsing the exhibits of the museum and library. There will be some craft demonstrations as well as Kolache demonstrations during the day. Embrodiderers Guild, Sokol, CR Stamp Club, and Family Heritage Boards. Come see all the unique gifts from the Czech Republic and Slovakia in our beautiful giftshop. Kolaches are for sale- we will have a lot of them!

2026 information will be added as received!

Register for the parade: Parade Registration

Line up will take place on the North side of the bridge by Kickstand & Masaryk Park The Parade will go across the bridge through 16th Ave SW to C Street and that is where it ends. All entries should be registered. This is hosted by Czech Heritage Foundation Cedar Rapids

Please join us by entering your vehicle in the parade. Parade Registration Form After the parade turn right on C Street, then take another right on 15th and turn into the grass area to the side of the museum on the left.

Be sure to stop and welcome the CHF Royal Court as they introduce themselves and invite you to celebrate Czech heritage in action. The Royal Court is made up of local youth, ages 6 to 16, who are passionate about learning, sharing, and preserving Czech traditions. Crowned each year during Houby Days, these young ambassadors proudly represent generations of culture by participating in parades, festivals, and Czech events throughout Cedar Rapids and other Czech communities. With roots dating back to the 1980s, the Royal Court continues to grow and thrive, giving kids the opportunity to connect through programs like Czech School, Sokol, and Svetlušky while building lifelong pride in their heritage. Come cheer them on, hear their stories, and see how the next generation is keeping Czech traditions alive—your support helps ensure these customs are passed down for years to come. Miss Czech Slovak Iowa is an ambassador program that represents Iowa. This is from the ages of 16-26. You may contact Czech Heritage Foundation for more information at Czech Heritage Foundation | Cedar Rapids, IA

Celebrate heritage, color, and community spirit by taking part in this year’s Parade of Kroje—and YOU are invited to be part of the tradition.

What is a kroje? A kroje is a traditional Czech or Slovak folk costume, often featuring embroidered blouses, full skirts, aprons, and vests. Wearing kroje—especially the iconic red vests—is a cherished cultural tradition passed down through generations and proudly showcased at festivals like Houby Days. And leading the fun will be Isabel Sherman, the 2025 Miss Czech/Slovak 1st Runner Up, who invites everyone—whether you have a kroje, a red vest, or simply a love for tradition—to join in.

✨ The Parade of Kroje will begin immediately following the Royal Court Introductions. ✨ Meet at the Kosek Bandstand to line up and participate.

Bring your kroje, your red vest, your family, and your pride. Let’s fill Czech Village with color, music, and joy. Come be part of a living tradition that continues to grow with every generation.

See you at the Kosek Bandstand—let’s make this year’s Parade of Kroje unforgettable.

Karička is the Slovak diminutive of “koleso” (circle) and refers to a traditional Slovak circle dance/song, especially from eastern Slovakia.

In cultural use, Karička represents togetherness, community, and folk tradition, often performed at celebrations and festivals

.In 2010, enthusiasts of folklore, under the leadership of Anka Hrabčáková Hradská, founded the Slovak Folklore Ensemble “Karička” in San Diego, California. The main goal of our ensemble is to preserve and develop folk and cultural traditions, customs, and practices from all of Slovakia, as well as from neighboring Moravia and the Czech lands, thereby nurturing both traditional and stylized folklore.

The Karička ensemble first introduced itself to our compatriots at the first expatriate folklore festival in San Diego in 2011. This was followed by additional performances at the San Diego Fair, Oktoberfest, and a short program organized by the Czech‑Slovak House in San Diego, where the ensemble received a very positive response.

Karička is the core group of the Association of Friends of Slovak Folklore, which organizes the Expatriate Folklore Festival in San Diego. In addition, the group strengthens friendships with other national folklore groups, such as Rusyn, Polish, Serbian, Bulgarian, and Hungarian ensembles, which have had the opportunity to perform at our festival.

Buresh Immigration Tower Orloj- National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library

Donate to the Orloj Today 9:00 AM- 9:00 PM every hour

In 2024, NCSML celebrated its 50th anniversary of fulfilling its mission to “engage the global community with unique Czech, Slovak, and American stories to inspire individuals with universal themes of culture, freedom, democracy, and immigration.”

One of the focal points of the celebration relates to the renovation of the NCSML clock tower that was built in 1995. The existing clock tower is now repaired and enhanced with the addition of an orloj clock. The NCSML Orloj is modeled after the famous Prague Orloj that is attached to the Old Town Hall in Prague. It is the oldest, still functioning astronomical clock in the world dating back to the 15th century AD.

The NCSML Buresh Immigration Tower is going to be a major tourist attraction for the entire historic and cultural district of Cedar Rapids. This unique destination is just one more way NCSML can share the universal themes of culture, freedom, democracy, and immigration to all who visit it.The Structure

This renovation includes the complex astronomical and clock mechanism called an astrolabe. All astrolabe parts that are in contact with the outside environment are made of stainless steel. The astrolabe graphics, such as numbers, lines, and symbols, are gilded with 24-karat gold. The renovation also includes 12 figurines (each almost 4 feet tall) on two carousels that awaken on the hour to mesmerize viewers who can watch them rotate to the music of Czech composers Bedrich Smetana and Antonin Dvorak. The twelve figurines express the stories of immigrants, with a farmer, a coal miner, a meatpacker, and other sculptures representing those who came to the United States from Czech, Slovak, Moravian, and other lands.

Ready for a road trip? Let The Swampland Jewels take you on a trip down old Highway 61, and across Route 90, through Southwest Louisiana and into East Texas. Playing a mix or original, Gulf Coast oldies, traditional Cajun/Creole, and TexMex tunes, The Swampland Jewels are sure to get you on your feet. If you aren’t a fan of the accordion, you will be after catching this set!

Stefanie Kohn, National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library curator, details the life, work, and inspirations of Joža Uprka. The Czech painter, often called the “Artist of the Moravian Soul,” blended academic technique with Impressionist influences to immortalize the customs and folk dress of his native region. Uprka is known for his richly detailed depictions of Moravian folklore, rural life, and spiritual traditions at the turn of the 20th century. This is a taped presentation that will be held in the Theater from NCSML.TV.

More than 120 works from the collection of George Drost, NCSML Board chair and preservationist, are filled with color and nods to Moravian traditions and heritage.

Step into a swirl of wonder and laughter and join the bubble fun during Houby Days in Czech Village! Down by the iconic National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library and the Buresh Immigration Tower Orloj, the air will sparkle with bubbles of every size—floating, shimmering, and delighting kids and adults alike. It’s the perfect place to pause, play, and soak in the joy of Houby Days as bubbles dance in the sunshine and smiles fill the streets. Bring the family, grab your cameras, and let yourselves be surrounded by simple, magical fun right in the heart of Czech Village—because nothing brings people together quite like bubbles, community, and a little festival magic! Donated by Nikki and Liliana Flores

Mid 1800's Czechs immigrated to Iowa. They came to Iowa to claim their own land and flee political/religious oppression by the Austrians. Most were farmers used to farming small tracts of land. They got here by ship, oxcart, covered wagon, and later train to settle in the Midwest. They began buying small tracts of land in this area to build homes. One of the first Churches for the Bohemian people was in Cedar Rapids also called St. Wenceslaus. As it grew and more settlers moved west they added another church called St. Ludmilla. Names of St. Ludmilla and Wenceslaus were revered among the Bohemians because they where historical figures that represented their self-governance.

They were brick layers, masons, tin smiths, laborers, and carpenters. Many helped build teh buildings in Cedar Rapids.

The Bohemians had large gardens and raised fowl for eggs and feathers. Geese especially were raised for down comforters. The Bohemians used geese feathers to dip into lard to brush the tops of Kolaches. (excerpt from: Our History) Painted villages of the Immigrant homelands are painted in the main worship area of the church.

Koláče Demonstration by the Kolache Krew of the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library.

🎶 Live Jazz + Houby Days Vibes 🍸
Don’t miss the Go Benesh Quartet during Houby Days! Led by a standout talent who currently holds 1st chair in Jazz Band One at the University of Northern Iowa, this quartet brings top‑tier jazz energy to Czech Village. Comprised of talented Kirkwood jazz musicians, they’ll be setting the tone with smooth, swinging sounds during cocktail hour.

✨ Enjoy free live music, sip on your favorite cocktails, and soak in the warm ambiance that makes Houby Days so special. Whether you’re a jazz fan or just looking for a great place to relax and celebrate, this is the perfect soundtrack to your evening. Come early, stay awhile, and let the music move you!

🎷🍹 See you at Houby Days!

Join us during Houby Days for the annual Morel Mushroom contest! This year, morel mushroom master, Kimberli Maloy will be the judge as well as Preston Moore!
Registration will be at the CVA Houby Days information table. The categories are....

-Most Unique
-Smallest
-Largest
-Most Creative Display

Judging will happen at the Lion Bridge beer garden at 2 PM!!!

You are welcome to drop off your morels ahead of the competition but you are in charge of bringing it out during the judging part.

(Registration fee will go to the Czech Village Association), prizes are sponsored by @Lion Bridge Brewing Company.

Make plans to join the St. Paul Czech & Slovak Folk Dancers as they bring color, rhythm, and centuries‑old tradition to life during Houby Day Festival weekend in Czech Village, Cedar Rapids. Traveling from Minnesota, this beloved group is known for sharing authentic Czech, Moravian, and Slovak dances through energetic performances, traditional music, and beautifully detailed folk costumes that celebrate heritage and community pride. Performing both Saturday and Sunday, their shows are full of joyful movement, cultural storytelling, and audience‑favorite dances that have made them a popular attraction at festivals across the Midwest. Whether you stay for one dance or both days, their performances are a must‑see highlight that invites all ages to experience the spirit of Czech and Slovak culture up close and cheer them on as they celebrate tradition in motion.

Barefoot Becky & the Ivanhoe Dutchmen

Mix a cup of German, Czech & Slovenian style polkas and waltzes, a cup of country,
two steps, foxtrots and big band, a dash of latin and line dances, and party favorites
to taste. Once it’s to your liking, you’ve got a recipe for a band that’s really cookin’!
That’s what you get when you see a live performance featuring Barefoot Becky & the
Ivanhoe Dutchmen, a group based out of Mt Vernon, Iowa.

The band, featuring Becky Livermore on accordion and vocals, has been performing
throughout the United States since 1988. People remember the band best by two
things: Becky’s bare feet! She started playing barefoot simply because it was more
comfortable than playing with shoes on. People seemed to think it was pretty funny
and have really come to expect it. Now the ‘barefoot’ motif is on almost everything
they have, like their music stands, posters, and custom made mugs and towels. In
addition to performing in ballrooms throughout the US, Barefoot Becky & the Ivanhoe
Dutchmen perform in a wide range of venues including: house parties, nightclubs, in
tents, for town festivals, RV conventions, and parades. In 1996, they performed for the
Smithsonian Institution’s Festival of American Folklife in Washington, D.C.

They have thirteen recordings available, with the latest on CD entitled ‘Merry Christmas
From Our House to Yours.’ The group always has a supply of their recordings available at
their performances. It’s really easy to take a little piece of the band home with you,
but you’ll have to supply your own bare feet!

Hwy 151 Band are from the Eastern Iowa area.  We are a group of musicians who have played in numerous bands throughout the area including Stormwatch, Top Side, Westwinds, and The Naked Gypsies.  Our three part harmonies are a highlight of our musical sound.  Our instrumentations include acoustic bass guitar, guitar,  mandolin, keyboard and percussion.  We cover several decades of music; songs like "Groovin" by The Young Rascals, Van Morrison's "Moon Dance", "Ring of Fire by Johnny Cash, and the classic "At Last" by the great Etta James.  We also play our originals like "Got to Be Kind" and "I've Got the Change" both written by Dan Hanlon, and "Back Home Again" written by Craig Campbell.

Hwy 151 Band is from Cedar Rapids, Iowa.  We are Craig and Sheryl Campbell, and Dan Hanlon.  We choose music that spans generations from  Johnny Cash's "Ring of Fire" to Megan Trainers "I'm Gonna Love You".  We play rock as well as country and styles in between.  We are currently playing in the Eastern Iowa area, but are open to expanding our area. 

Musicians eat for free!

$20 buffet all you can eat!

Mid 1800's Czechs immigrated to Iowa. They came to Iowa to claim their own land and flee political/religious oppression by the Austrians. The Catholic Mass was celebrated at that time in Latin. We invite you to join us for a traditional Latin mass. Most were farmers used to farming small tracts of land. They got here by ship, oxcart, covered wagon, and later train to settle in the Midwest. They began buying small tracts of land in this area to build homes. One of the first Churches for the Bohemian people was in Cedar Rapids also called St. Wenceslaus. As it grew and more settlers moved west they added another church called St. Ludmilla. Names of St. Ludmilla and Wenceslaus were revered among the Bohemians because they where historical figures that represented their self-governance.

They were brick layers, masons, tin smiths, laborers, and carpenters. Many helped build teh buildings in Cedar Rapids.

The Bohemians had large gardens and raised fowl for eggs and feathers. Geese especially were raised for down comforters. The Bohemians used geese feathers to dip into lard to brush the tops of Kolaches. (excerpt from: Our History) Painted villages of the Immigrant homelands are painted in the main worship area of the church.

Make plans to join the St. Paul Czech & Slovak Folk Dancers as they bring color, rhythm, and centuries‑old tradition to life during Houby Day Festival weekend in Czech Village, Cedar Rapids. Traveling from Minnesota, this beloved group is known for sharing authentic Czech, Moravian, and Slovak dances through energetic performances, traditional music, and beautifully detailed folk costumes that celebrate heritage and community pride. Performing both Saturday and Sunday, their shows are full of joyful movement, cultural storytelling, and audience‑favorite dances that have made them a popular attraction at festivals across the Midwest. Whether you stay for one dance or both days, their performances are a must‑see highlight that invites all ages to experience the spirit of Czech and Slovak culture up close and cheer them on as they celebrate tradition in motion.

Mid 1800's Czechs immigrated to Iowa. They came to Iowa to claim their own land and flee political/religious oppression by the Austrians. Most were farmers used to farming small tracts of land. They got here by ship, oxcart, covered wagon, and later train to settle in the Midwest. They began buying small tracts of land in this area to build homes. One of the first Churches for the Bohemian people was in Cedar Rapids also called St. Wenceslaus. As it grew and more settlers moved west they added another church called St. Ludmilla. Names of St. Ludmilla and Wenceslaus were revered among the Bohemians because they where historical figures that represented their self-governance.

They were brick layers, masons, tin smiths, laborers, and carpenters. Many helped build teh buildings in Cedar Rapids.

The Bohemians had large gardens and raised fowl for eggs and feathers. Geese especially were raised for down comforters. The Bohemians used geese feathers to dip into lard to brush the tops of Kolaches. (excerpt from: Our History) Painted villages of the Immigrant homelands are painted in the main worship area of the church.

Bring a chair, tap your toes, and come enjoy the timeless sound of the Iowa Accordion Club of Cedar Rapids as they bring generations of traditional music to life in Czech Village. Known for lively, feel‑good favorites like “Five Foot Two,” “Barbara Polka,” and “Ain’t She Sweet,” the Iowa Accordion Club has long been a beloved part of community gatherings, carrying forward musical traditions that have entertained families for decades. You’ll often find them performing about once a month in Czech Village, where their familiar melodies create a welcoming, nostalgic atmosphere and continue a strong tradition of supporting local public events and festivals. Whether you’re a lifelong accordion fan or hearing these classics for the first time, their performances are a joyful reminder of the music, heritage, and community spirit that define Czech Village. Learn more and follow their performances on their Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/414690311384186/.

🥮 Get Ready for the Kolache Baking Contest at Houby Days! 🥮

May 17th, 2026

Do you have the best kolaches in town? Think your dough is fluffier, your fillings richer, your technique unbeatable? Then it’s time to prove it at the Houby Days Kolache Baking Contest—a delicious showdown of tradition, talent, and community pride.

⭐ Bring Your Best Batch

All participants are asked to bring 3 dozen kolaches— • Some for the judges • And plenty for the community to taste and enjoy

Because what’s a kolache contest without sharing the sweetness?

👑 Compete for the Crown

Who will be named this year’s Koláčový král (Kolache King) or Královna koláče (Kolache Queen)? Only one way to find out: enter the contest and let your baking speak for itself.

🍒 Led by Local Experts

This flavorful event will be guided by:

• Bonnie Rohlena, Czech Home Economics Teacher

• Michelle Simoneau, Czech Heritage Foundation

Their passion for Czech baking and tradition will make this contest both fun and unforgettable.

🎉 Join the Fun

Whether you’re a seasoned baker, a proud beginner, or simply someone who loves kolaches, this is your moment to shine. Bring your best, share your heritage, and help fill Czech Village with the aroma of freshly baked tradition.

Let’s make May 17th the sweetest day of Houby Days. Winners announced at 3:00 PM

Buresh Immigration Tower Orloj- National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library

Donate to the Orloj Today 9:00 AM- 9:00 PM every hour

In 2024, NCSML celebrated its 50th anniversary of fulfilling its mission to “engage the global community with unique Czech, Slovak, and American stories to inspire individuals with universal themes of culture, freedom, democracy, and immigration.”

One of the focal points of the celebration relates to the renovation of the NCSML clock tower that was built in 1995. The existing clock tower is now repaired and enhanced with the addition of an orloj clock. The NCSML Orloj is modeled after the famous Prague Orloj that is attached to the Old Town Hall in Prague. It is the oldest, still functioning astronomical clock in the world dating back to the 15th century AD.

The NCSML Buresh Immigration Tower is going to be a major tourist attraction for the entire historic and cultural district of Cedar Rapids. This unique destination is just one more way NCSML can share the universal themes of culture, freedom, democracy, and immigration to all who visit it.The Structure

This renovation includes the complex astronomical and clock mechanism called an astrolabe. All astrolabe parts that are in contact with the outside environment are made of stainless steel. The astrolabe graphics, such as numbers, lines, and symbols, are gilded with 24-karat gold. The renovation also includes 12 figurines (each almost 4 feet tall) on two carousels that awaken on the hour to mesmerize viewers who can watch them rotate to the music of Czech composers Bedrich Smetana and Antonin Dvorak. The twelve figurines express the stories of immigrants, with a farmer, a coal miner, a meatpacker, and other sculptures representing those who came to the United States from Czech, Slovak, Moravian, and other lands.

Koláče Demonstration by the Kolache Krew of the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library.

Karička is the Slovak diminutive of “koleso” (circle) and refers to a traditional Slovak circle dance/song, especially from eastern Slovakia.

In cultural use, Karička represents togetherness, community, and folk tradition, often performed at celebrations and festivals

.In 2010, enthusiasts of folklore, under the leadership of Anka Hrabčáková Hradská, founded the Slovak Folklore Ensemble “Karička” in San Diego, California. The main goal of our ensemble is to preserve and develop folk and cultural traditions, customs, and practices from all of Slovakia, as well as from neighboring Moravia and the Czech lands, thereby nurturing both traditional and stylized folklore.

The Karička ensemble first introduced itself to our compatriots at the first expatriate folklore festival in San Diego in 2011. This was followed by additional performances at the San Diego Fair, Oktoberfest, and a short program organized by the Czech‑Slovak House in San Diego, where the ensemble received a very positive response.

Karička is the core group of the Association of Friends of Slovak Folklore, which organizes the Expatriate Folklore Festival in San Diego. In addition, the group strengthens friendships with other national folklore groups, such as Rusyn, Polish, Serbian, Bulgarian, and Hungarian ensembles, which have had the opportunity to perform at our festival.

Join in the fun with Five Seasons Chamber Music and some enjoyable entertainment, while browsing the exhibits of the museum and library. There will be some craft demonstrations as well as Kolache demonstrations during the day. Embrodiderers Guild, Sokol, CR Stamp Club, and Family Heritage Boards. Come see all the unique gifts from the Czech Republic and Slovakia in our beautiful giftshop. Kolaches are for sale- we will have a lot of them!

Please help us welcome Kimberli Maloy Music to the Houby Day Festival stage as she shares her heartfelt sound and celebrates the spirit of local talent. A Cedar Rapids–based singer‑songwriter, Kimberli is known for her eclectic acoustic style and engaging performances that have made her a familiar favorite at venues and events across eastern Iowa. She has performed and hosted songwriter showcases at CSPS Hall, brought live music to places like Millstream Brau Haus in the Amana Colonies, downtown Cedar Rapids venues, and community festivals, and continues to support local music scenes through regular live appearances and collaborations. Her Houby Day performance promises a relaxed, family‑friendly atmosphere filled with great music, making it the perfect opportunity to slow down, enjoy the day, and support a talented local artist right here in Czech Village.

Miss Czech/Slovak Talent Performance and share their heritage with our community. Please join use for this special opportunity.

Miss Czech-Slovak Iowa Pageant Application — Czech Heritage Foundation | Cedar Rapids, IA

If you are interested in learning about your heritage while traveling across the state of Iowa and earning scholarship money, this is the program for you.

pageant documents

Click on the links below to download the official rules, awards and entry form for the 2025 pageant:

• Official Rules and Regulations

• Awards, Duties and Responsibilities of Miss Czech-Slovak Iowa and Her Court

• Official Pageant Entry Checklist and Application

Sign up will be at the Volunteer stand on Sunday, and just before the event. Limited number of people can participate for each age group. $2.00 for 10 and younger, $5.00 for anyone older.

3 divisions for up to 6 participants in each division.

Please stop by the Information Booth for the registration forms!

This event will be hosted by the Health Hut. Winners receive a free DQ Bizzard

Scholarships — Czech Heritage Foundation | Cedar Rapids, IA

Established in 1998, the Czech Heritage Foundation has given out over 85 scholarships to worthy applicants. CHF understands the importance and high costs of education for youth, and therefore created a program to assist students in paying for higher education who have Czech/Slovak ancestry. Scholarships are traditionally awarded during the CHF’s annual August picnic.

The award is available to applicants who have completed a minimum of one year as a full-time, post-secondary student; have accumulated at least 24 secondary credits after high school graduation; or are a graduate student. Upon receiving a scholarship, recipients are expected to participate in a function sponsored by the Czech Heritage Foundation. To download a full list of requirements for the scholarship, click here.

Interested in applying? Click here to fill out an application!

Pictures tell the story of the Cabbage Roll Challenge. Started at Houby days by Sykora Bakery. We will try to bring this back in to the Houby Day Festival of events thanks to the Rocarek Family.

Please join us for this fun event. Two people will challenge each other to roll a cabbage through obstacles with a broom. You will receive a Houby Day Collector Pin for participating in this event!

Photo is credited to Cindy Hadish

Světlušky, which translates as “Fireflies”, is a dance group that performs with live and some recorded music. Dressed in traditional Kroje designed by Donna and Gunther Merkle. Donna and Gunther started this group in Cedar Rapids, IA and they currently have 10 members. They perform at St. Wenc. Goulash Days, Houby Days, Old World Market, Linn County Fair and some assisted living locations. They always welcome donations to keep this group going. Svetlusky is always encouraging new members to join this growing group.!

We begin our kick-off concert on the Friday night of Houby Days, May 16 on the Kosek Bandstand. The Czech Heritage Foundation.will sponsor this event. Our schedule then, is every other Friday, 7-8:30.

Video Link Czech Plus Band

We begin our kick-off concert on the Friday night of Houby Days, May 16 on the Kosek Bandstand. The Czech Heritage Foundation.will sponsor this event. Our schedule then, is every other Friday, 7-8:30.

Video Link Czech Plus Band

We begin our kick-off concert on the Friday night of Houby Days, May 16 on the Kosek Bandstand. The Czech Heritage Foundation.will sponsor this event. Our schedule then, is every other Friday, 7-8:30.

Video Link Czech Plus Band

Kosek Bandstand every other Friday, 7-8:30.

Video Link Czech Plus Band

Upcoming Dates Summer 2026

We begin our kick-off concert on the Friday night of Houby Days, May 16 on the Kosek Bandstand. The Czech Heritage Foundation.will sponsor this event. Our schedule then, is every other Friday, 7-8:30.

Here are the concert dates;

May 15, 29

June 12,26

July 10, 24

August 7

Upcoming Dates Summer 2026

We begin our kick-off concert on the Friday night of Houby Days, May 16 on the Kosek Bandstand. The Czech Heritage Foundation.will sponsor this event. Our schedule then, is every other Friday, 7-8:30.

Here are the concert dates;

May 15, 29

June 12,26

July 10, 24

August 7

Video Link Czech Plus Band