Christmas in the Village- Join the President of Czech Village Association and other leadership over the lunch hour. Investigate the stories and inspiration about the murals and art in Czech Village. This will be a walking tour-weather permitting- Meet at Health Hut.
Gather your family and friends for a joyful evening with the one and only Santa Claus! Enjoy a cozy night filled with holiday cheer, perfect for kids and adults alike. Free admission, family-friendly fun, build-your-own hot chocolate bar, free photo ops with Santa, delicious pizza slices and pints of beer available for purchase! Come for the photos, stay for the festive vibes. It’s a night to remember at Lion Bridge!
Czech Village Association invites you to share your family tree. Please share your family tree roots on a tri-fold board, this is open to the community. The Miss Czech/Slovak Iowa program does this as they complete. We invite past Miss Czech/Slovak candidates, visiting Royalty, and families in our community to make a cardboard tri-fold board to display your family story.
Please bring your board (TBA)- Saturday at 9:30 AM. We will have two tables to display these boards on. You will need to pick them up at the end of Houby Days around 3:30 PM on Sunday please.
Last year information below: 2026 information will be added as received!
Register for the parade: PARADE REGISTRATION 2025 Saturday 10:00 AM Click the link for information.
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 2025 Saturday 10:00 AM After the parade turn right on C Street, then take another right on 15th and turn into the parking lot behind Hospoda and across from the large slide.. 2026 location is to be determined by the Houby Day Committee
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Click on the links below to download the official rules, awards and entry form for the 2025 pageant:
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
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.
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.
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.
Kosek Bandstand every other Friday, 7-8:30.
Come join in the summer fun of Sidewalk Sales in the Czech Village area! Lots of great sales! We look forward to seeing you. While you here stop in your favorite restaurant for a nice cool drink or an ice-cream!.
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
A festive holiday evening! SHOP / DINE / ENJOY LOCAL THIS HOLIDAY SEASON - CHRISTMAS IN THE VILLAGE
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.
Old World Christmas Market is inspired by traditional European markets, but with our own Midwest magic. Experience a delightful market with local handcrafted items, delicious treats, entertainment and activities for people of all ages. This enchanted celebration of culture, community, and holiday cheer is free for the entire weekend, including admission to NCSML galleries.
2025’s schedule includes extended hours on Saturday, plus a Culinary Taste featuring authentic Czech and Slovak foods! Enjoy delicious treats, entertainment, free museum admission, and activities for people of all ages during Old World Christmas Market.
This year we will have a new craft available for visitors again! Come and play with paper crafts, tiny carps, walnut boats and much more.
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 6
9:30 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Museum galleries open with free admission for all
Museum Store open
Family holiday crafts for all (Jiruska Gallery)
Holiday Vendor Market (WFLA Heritage Hall)
Czech Heritage Foundation Wreath Raffle (WFLA Heritage Hall)
Kolache Café (Rozek Grand Hall)
9:30 a.m. – Noon (or ending earlier, depending on supply) Cookie Walk. Cookies will be sold by the pound. (Rozek Grand Hall)
11 a.m. – 6 p.m. Authentic Czech and Slovak Foods Available
10 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. & 1:30 p.m. – 3 p.m. Svatý Mikuláš, Čert, and Anděl (Father Christmas, Devil, and Angel) will be present (Roaming)
12 p.m. – 1 p.m. Bell Choir Group (Rozek Grand Hall)
1:15 p.m. – 3 p.m. Marion Chamber Trio (Rozek Grand Hall)
3 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. Heritage and Pageant Talk by Miss Czech Slovak U.S. 2025-2026 Madelyn Karstedt and 1st Runner-up Isabel Sherman (Rozek Grand Hall)
3:45 p.m. – 4:45 p.m. Iowa Accordion Club (Rozek Grand Hall)
5 p.m. – 6 p.m. Czech, Slovak & US Carrols by Jozef and Dodo Ivaška (Rozek Grand Hall)
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 7
10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Museum galleries open with free admission for all
Museum Store open
Family holiday crafts for all (Jiruska Gallery)
Holiday Vendor Market (WFLA Heritage Hall)
Czech Heritage Foundation Wreath Raffle (WFLA Heritage Hall)
Kolache Café (or ending earlier, while supplies last)
(Rozek Grand Hall)
Authentic Czech and Slovak Foods Take Away
10 a.m. – 11 a.m. Christmas Melodies
11 a.m. – Noon Sara Miller Piano (Rozek Grand Hall)
Noon – 12:30 p.m. Heritage and Pageant Talk by Miss Czech Slovak US 2025-2026 Madelyn Karstedt and 1st Runner-up Isabel Sherman (Rozek Grand Hall)
12:30 p.m. – 1 p.m. Five Seasons Chamber Music Group (Rozek Grand Hall)
12:30 p.m. – 1:30 p.m. Svatý Mikuláš will be present; 1:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. Svatý Mikuláš, Čert, and Anděl (Father Christmas, Devil, and Angel) Roaming
1 p.m. – 1:30 p.m. Světlušky Youth Ensemble (Rozek Grand Hall)
1:30 p.m. – 3 p.m. Five Seasons Chamber Music Group (Rozek Grand Hall)
3 p.m. Czech Heritage Foundation Wreath Raffle Drawing (WFLA Heritage Hall)
3 p.m. – 4 p.m. Czech, Slovak & US Carrols by Jozef and Dodo Ivaška (Rozek Grand Hall)
For more information please visit: https://ncsml.org/ncsml-events/old-world-christmas-market/
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.
Join us at Up In Smoke to kick off the celebration of Czech Traditional Svaty Mikulas (St. Nicholas) and the tree lighting at the Kozek Bandstand. The local Czech Slovak youth: Royal Court & Svetlusky will be joining us. Kick off your holiday season right! Pam Lewis will present the traditions in the Czech Republic & Slovakia. Please join us for cookies & hot chocolate. 3 piece Brass Band will join us to sing Christmas carols at the bandstand. Consider eating dinner at Up In Smoke leading up to this event. Thank Adam for hosting this year!!
Avoid the craziness of big box stores this holiday season and find unique gifts as well as unique menu items in the local stores and restaurants. Come down to the Village and support your neighbors and their small businesses.
Plaid Friday is a unique shopping event that takes place the day after Thanksgiving, designed to promote local artisans and small businesses. Unlike the chaotic Black Friday sales, Plaid Friday encourages consumers to shop locally and support their communities. WE WILL HAVE A PROMOTION PAGE AT THE DIFFERENT BUSINESSES IN THE CZECH VILLAGE AREA! COME CELEBRATE CHRISTMAS IN THE VILLAGE!!
COME DECORATE CZECH VILLAGE FOR CHRISTMAS IN THE VILLAGE THROUGH THE MONTH OF DECEMBER! Decorate Christmas tree: Saturday morning 11:00 am PLEASE MEET AT THE KOSEK BANDSTAND TO BRING JOY TO THE VILLAGE.
Join us for some Not-So-Scary daytime Trick or Treating in Czech Village Saturday, October 25th from 10 am—Noon. All Ages Welcome!
Students of all ages (preschool through college) are invited to visit the NCSML’s exhibits for free on the first Saturday of each month. College students must bring a current school ID card.
Cost: Free with student ID.
Upcoming Dates Summer 2025
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 16, 30
June 13, 27
July 11, 25
August 8
Our finale is Sunday, May 10, 3:30-5:00
Upcoming Dates Summer 2025
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 16, 30
June 13, 27
July 11, 25
August 8
Our finale is Sunday, May 10, 3:30-5:00
Come join in the summer fun of Sidewalk Sales in the Czech Village area! Lots of great sales! We look forward to seeing you. While you here stop in your favorite restaurant for a nice cool drink or an ice-cream!.
Upcoming Dates Summer 2025
Kosek Bandstand every other Friday, 7-8:30.
Here are the concert dates;
May 16, 30
June 13, 27
July 11, 25
August 8
Our finale is Sunday, May 10, 3:30-5:00
Upcoming Dates Summer 2025
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 16, 30
June 13, 27
July 11, 25
August 8
Our finale is Sunday, May 10, 3:30-5:00
Upcoming Dates Summer 2025
Kosek Bandstand every other Friday, 7-8:30.
Here are the concert dates;
May 16, 30
June 13, 27
July 11, 25
August 8
Our finale is Sunday, May 10, 3:30-5:00
Upcoming Dates Summer 2025
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 16, 30
June 13, 27
July 11, 25
August 8
Our finale is Sunday, May 10, 3:30-5:00
Pickup this color page and color one of Marj Nejdl design sheets. They will be on display during Houby Days on the Ave. The final selection will be made on Sunday in Novak Park. We will celebrate heritage with the Czech Artists Mucha, we will celebrate MaryKay McGrath and the legacy in Czech Village, and we will honor Marj Nejdl with her everlasting love of art, kids, and her community.
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.!
2 p.m. World Premiere of Zabíječka Film (Subject matter may not be appropriate for all viewers. Discretion is advised.), Hemphill TheaterZabíjačka is a communal tradition in the Czech and Slovak tradition. It is where communities would come together in the cooler temperatures, and they would prepare a hog for slaughter. Nothing was ever wasted, and it was an important way to survive. Although this is not allowed in public anymore, several different dishes are prepared. Dr. Cecilia Rokusek will explain and review the importance of this important tradition from a documentary perspective. Parental guidance strongly suggested.
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
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
Koláče Demonstration by the Kolache Krew & Dr. Cecilia Rokusek the President of the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library.
Various musicians will perform on the Vintage Market Stage on Sunday,.from 12-3:30 PM
1-2:30 Kimberli Maloy: +1 319-270-0975
12-1 PM & 2:30-3:30 PM John Koozer Washington High School Student who is a talented guitar player, singer and writer will debut have his first debut performance at Houby Days. He will play his own songs, which have been influenced by the times. He will play a mix of original songs. His favorite influences: Dokken, Weezer, and Nirvana, will be intermixed in the selection of tunes. John will do acoustical versions of some songs he wrote with his band: The Electric Paper Clips. John loves to share his passion with everyone.
Others are welcome!
Browse the exhibits of the museum and library. There will be some craft demonstrations as well as Kolache demonstrations during the day. 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!
