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History
of the Kolache Festival
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Around the turn of the century,
a group of Czechoslovakian pioneers took part in the Oklahoma
Land Run and settled in an area they called Prague in remembrance
of their homeland. In looking for a way to celebrate the town's
50th birthday (May, 1952), a festival was planned. It was only
natural to use a Czech theme for the celebration. Knowing that
everyone loved the delicious Czech pastries, it was decided
to name the festival after a favorite fruit filled sweet rool,
the KOLACHE. |
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The first Kolache Festival, May 19-21, 1951, was a dress
rehearsal for the Golden Anniversary. It was a huge success,
and a yearly celebration took place through 1955 when a 10
year lapse occurred. The annual celebrations once again started
in 1965 and have continued to be on of the top festivals in
Oklahoma.
The celebration is held the First Saturday in May and attracts
some 25,000 to 30,000 people to this unique town of 2,500.
Women in the community must start backing Kolaches months
in advance to prepare for the festival. It is estimated that
some 50,000 Kolaches are consumed by the residents and visitors
alike during festivities. A contest to determine the best
homemade Kolaches, bread and wine is held in conjunction with
the festival.
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An Arts and Crafts show is set up
in the city part and opens at 9:00 a.m. An Amusement Carnival
is based on the south-east edge of the park with rides and games
for all ages. At 11:00 am one of Oklahoma's largest parades
starts at the west edge of town and makes its way through downtown
Prague ending at the south edge of town. Residents dressed in
colorful and brightly decorated Czech costumes can be seen along
the parade route. Floats, bands, beautiful girls, horses, clowns,
and the world |
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up the two-hour parade. Free entertainment ranging from singers,
dancers, bands, gymnasts, are guaranteed to please the curiosity
of all. Entertainers may be seen at open Grandstands, in the
part, and strolling through the streets. Food and Souvenir booths
line either side of Main Street. Visitors can feast on the locally
made smoked Czech sausages, Klobase, as well as satisfy their
sweet tooth with their favorite flavor Kolache. Other ethnic
foods such as Indian Tacos, and Polish hot dogs can also be
found on the food course. A Czech costume judging contest plus
folk and Czech dancers add an array of color to the festival
and bring out the heritage of our first settlers. The crowning
of the Kolache Festival Royalty, at 5:55 pm, is one of the highlights
of a full day of fun. At 7:00 pm, the new Queen customarily
starts off the famous polka street dance that continues until
10:00 pm. For more information on the Beseda
Dance and the Czechoslovakian National
Dress, please click on the name. |
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