Wilber, Nebraska, proudly dubbed “Czech Capital USA,” recently concluded its 64th annual Czech Festival, an extraordinary testament to enduring cultural heritage and vibrant community spirit. This long-standing celebration, a cornerstone of Nebraska festivals, brought together thousands from across the nation to immerse themselves in a rich tapestry of Czech culture, tradition, and camaraderie, demonstrating a profound dedication to its roots.

At the heart of the festivities was the captivating spectacle of traditional dance, with the Wilber Czech Dancers, both junior and senior divisions, showcasing intricate steps passed down through generations. Young dancers like 16-year-olds Kendall Filipi and Jonny Kohout, who have partnered for over a decade, embody the living legacy, highlighting how deeply these traditions are ingrained from an early age, often beginning “ever since we were, like, in diapers,” as Kohout quipped.

The festival’s commitment to heritage preservation extended far beyond the dance floor, encompassing various traditional crafts and arts. Attendees witnessed intricate quilting displays, enjoyed authentic Czech music, and savored traditional foods that offered a delicious taste of ancestral customs, ensuring that every facet of Czech culture was celebrated and kept alive.

The event’s widespread appeal was evident in the diverse attendance, drawing visitors from afar, eager to experience this unique cultural phenomenon. Mike Simpson, stopping on his journey from the Grand Canyon, lauded the festival’s atmosphere, noting, “It is nice to see the connection of generations,” underscoring the universal resonance of shared history and communal joy.

The deep-rooted connection of Wilber to its Czech ancestry traces back to approximately 1873, when Czech immigrants settled in the area, finding its landscape reminiscent of their homeland. Festival veteran Tammy Parsons, whose maiden name Zalesky links her directly to this heritage, has attended the festival for an astonishing 65 years, serving as a living bridge to the past and a testament to the community’s dedication.

This intergenerational transfer of knowledge is meticulously fostered, ensuring the continuity of Czech culture. Figures like Sheryl Kastanek, affectionately known as “Mama Sheryl,” have dedicated over three decades to teaching traditional dances to children as young as two, nurturing a love for their heritage from the earliest years and cementing the future of this community celebration.

Ultimately, the 64th Wilber Czech Festival stood as a powerful affirmation of identity and the strength of a community celebration. It was a day where past and present converged, where the dedication to heritage preservation shone brightly through every dance step, every shared meal, and every moment of collective joy, reinforcing the vibrant spirit of Nebraska festivals and the enduring legacy of Wilber’s Czech roots.