If you are of Czech ancestry or just interested in the Czech culture, you’ll be glad to know there are several vibrant Czech communities scattered across the United States. Here is a top ten list of communities with festivals celebrating the Czech culture…
Throughout America, there are numerous communities where people of Czech heritage settled over the decades. Many of these communities celebrate this heritage with an annual festival that brings together people who enjoy the music, food and cultural traditions.
Each of the communities listed have an annual festival, and most are two or three days in length and held over a weekend. You can find more details about each festival at our website.
Here are our top ten favorites:
Tabor, South Dakota: Usually held the 3rd weekend of June, this fest often draws 10,000 people, which dwarfs the actual town itself. Tabor has a population of about 500.
Wilber, Nebraska: This central Nebraska community not far from Lincoln has an authentic cultural shopping district on its main street downtown. It was named the Czech capital of the U.S. in 1987. The celebration is usually held the last weekend in July or early August.
Victoria, Texas: About 45 minutes north of Corpus Christi, Victoria is a great small Texas town that celebrates both barbecue and its heritage.
West, Texas: Held in early September, this weekend celebration attracts upwards of 25,000 visitors and has been held continuously since 1976.
Wilson, Kansas: Held on the last weekend of July, you’ll find an authentic beer garden, beauty pageant, and lots of authentic food in this small central Kansas community.
Yukon, Oklahoma: This is an Octoberfest of sorts and is held on the first Saturday of October. Food, drink, music, and entertainment abound.
Clarkson, Nebraska: This northeast Nebraska community hosts its annual heritage festival in late June. It is a three day event that draws visitors from several surrounding states.
St. Louis, Missouri: Held in April, this spring fest features cooking demonstrations, fashion show, and a bountiful dinner.
Lincoln, Nebraska: One of the more active heritage communities and the capital of Nebraska, this vibrant little city holds a spring fest with an emphasis on music, crafts, and authentic food.
Taborville, Ohio: Taborville is about 25 miles east of Cleveland. They hold a one day celebration usually on a Sunday in July.
The biggest Czech communities in America are in central Texas, Nebraska, and the greater Chicago area. Near west suburban Chicago has some of the best Czech restaurants in the country, with authentic food, drink, and decor.
If we had to name our favorite Czech restaurant, it would be the historic Bohemian Cafe in Omaha, Nebraska, just south of downtown. In operation since the 1920’s, it doesn’t get more authentic than this! Portions are lovingly prepared, generous, and inexpensive. If you happen to visit Omaha, this is a great place for lunch or dinner.
