Music and Dancing

Music is and always has been an important part of the Czech culture. The Czech saying “Co Czech to musikant”, every Czech is a musician carries much truth. There is music everywhere during the festival. There are bands on the stage at the Hotel Wilber, in the TJ Sokol Hall and at several of the taverns around town. The Alumni Marching band will be playing in the parades and around town. Accordion jamborees will be held at the Outdoor Theater and the Downtown Bandstand.

And where there is music there will probably be dancing. In fact the polka is a dance created originally by a young Czech farm girl named Anna. The name polka is derived from the Czech word pulka,literally meaning little step or half step and referring to the half step found in the dance. Unfortunately the Czech word polka means Polish woman often Poland is incorrectly credited with the origin of the polka.

Wilber Alumni Band Schedule

2 p.m. Saturday …….. Parade
5 p.m. Saturday……… Concert at Wilber Sokol Hall
10:15 a.m. Sunday …. Wilber Care Center
2 p.m. Sunday ………. Parade

Czech Historical Pageant

The “Tales of the Czechs” can be seen at the Outdoor Theatre both Friday and Saturday nights at about 9pm. Come and see the “live” still life portrayal of the history and legends of the Czech people.

 

Quilt Show

Visit the Extension Office Saturday and Sunday from 10am to 5pm to view beautiful, handmade quilts from around the country. To enter your quilt, please fill out this form and bring it along with the quilt to the Extension Office on the Friday of the festival from 1 to 4pm or call 402.821.2749 for more information.

Talent Contest

The Wilber Czech Festival Talent Contest, under the direction of chairpersons, Judy Vrbka and Maureen Halama will be held at the Outdoor Theater south of the Wilber Swimming Pool on Saturday at 3:30 p.m. Whatever your talent is, YOU ARE URGED TO PARTICIPATE!!!!

There are three age groups: 11 Years and under; 12 to 17 Years; and 18 Years and Over. First through fourth place will be given in each division. The use of Czech music and costumes is not an entry requirement, but adds to the festivities. Each entry is strictly limited to 3 minutes. Solos and Groups may enter. The group number will be determined by the age of the oldest contestant in that group. A “group” is made up of two or more individuals. A memorized selection will rate higher than one that is not. Contestants will be judged on talent, poise, presentation, appearance and suitability of material presented.

Download registration form here.