10/01/2026
🇨🇿🌾 Czech settlers began arriving in Nebraska in the 19th century. Through hard work, perseverance, determination, and a strong sense of community 🤝, they built new lives there and helped shape the state we know today. More than a century later ⏳, Nebraska remains home to one of the strongest Czech-American communities in the United States, whose members continue to take great pride in their Czech roots and cultural heritage ❤️.
🏘️🇨🇿Wilber, proudly known as the Czech Capital of the USA, and its annual Czech Days Festival 🎉 are among the most important symbols of Czech heritage in Nebraska. The town comes alive with Czech traditions, music 🎶, food 🥧, and community spirit 🤝, creating a unique bridge between the Czech Republic and the American Midwest.
🥧🎵 Kolaches, polka music, and a warm community atmosphere were all part of President Petr Pavel's visit to Wilber. The President was deeply moved by the heartfelt welcome he received and by the dedication with which local families have preserved Czech traditions for generations 👨👩👧👦. Particularly inspiring was seeing the youngest members of the community proudly carrying this heritage forward through their performances 💃🕺and participation in the celebrations.
🏛️🇨🇿 Speaking at the historic Sokol Hall, President Pavel thanked the community for keeping the Czech spirit alive and for strengthening the enduring friendship between Czechs and Americans. In recognition of the occasion, Wilber Mayor Roger Chrans presented the President with the key 🔑 to the city and proclaimed 📜 September 24 as "Czech President Petr Pavel Day" in Wilber.
The visit was a truly heartwarming celebration of the bonds that connect our two nations and of the remarkable people who have worked tirelessly to preserve Czech culture in Nebraska. We would like to express our sincere gratitude 🙏 to everyone who welcomed our delegation, shared their traditions with us, performed, and helped make this day so memorable. Our special thanks go to Roger Chrans, RandyKozeal, Jen Pospisil, Sheryl Kastanek, M. Polacek, Debra Spicka Polacek, and all the many volunteers and community members 🤝 whose dedication ❤️ made this exceptional event possible.
