01/06/2026
A few pictures from the 60th edition of the National Polka Festival in Ennis, TX.
It was a wonderful weekend full of polka, pivo, lidovky and koláče.
The festival featured amazing Czexan bands such as Czech & Then Some, Czechaholics, and the Ennis Czech Boys. I love how they make traditional lidovky music feel fresh, alive, and genuinely cool.
We also had so much fun at the concerts of - his energy is absolutely incredible!
We also couldn’t miss the performances by , who came all the way from the Czech Republic, this time accompanied by the Governor of the Pardubice Region, Martin Netolický, as well as Czech representatives from , Markéta Vohralíková and Světlana Doboszová, who, as Grand Marshal, did an amazing job connecting Czechs and Czexans throughout the festival.
On Saturday, we were honored to share the parade truck with Eden, the Queen of Oklahoma . While there, I also had the chance to meet the wonderful Kathy Podsednik, director of the Texas Czech-Slovak Pageant and Royalty Program.
Another highlight of the weekend was the performance by who created an unforgettable atmosphere by combining authentic Czech folk dancing with a little Texas twang. And of course, I can’t forget the beautiful kroje, lovingly sewn by Maggie and Ashley Grmela .
On Sunday, I was invited to Lukáš Pavel’s podcast where he shares fascinating stories of Czech expats living in Texas. I’m very happy to have been part of it as well. Afterwards, we met Lenka Pavlová and found lots of inspiration in . Her book is truly a masterpiece, bringing together all the essential Czech recipes in one beautiful collection.
This three-day festival just felt like home, and the atmosphere was incredible. Huge respect and admiration to all the organizations and everyone involved in making this event so special. The sense of community here is something truly unique.
Thank you for inviting me and all new friends who celebrated this festival with us🤍
