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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
one block west of the stoplight 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 7th Street on Hwy 99 and makes its way through
downtown Prague ending at the grandstand at the City park. 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 famous Shriner's |
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entertainment ranging from singers, dancers, bands, gymnasts,
are guaranteed to please the curiosity of all. Entertainers
may be seen at open Grandstands, in the park, 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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