YUKON, Okla. (Sept. 3, 2025) — The Oklahoma Czechs, Inc. proudly announces the 59th Annual Oklahoma Czech Festival, returning to downtown Yukon, Oklahoma, on Saturday, Oct. 4, 2025. One of the state’s largest and most cherished heritage celebrations, this free, family-friendly event brings Czech culture to life through music, dance, traditional attire (kroj), arts, food, and community spirit.
This year’s theme, “Czech Art,” highlights the many ways creativity has shaped and preserved Czech and Slovak culture for generations. From hand-embroidered kroj and symbolic folk imagery to music, dance, and performance traditions passed down through time, Czech art remains both a reflection of heritage and a living expression of community identity. Guests will experience how artistry flows through every aspect of Czech life, whether displayed by skilled craftspeople, in the details of traditional designs, or through storytelling woven into folk entertainment—revealing the enduring beauty and resilience of Czech and Slovak traditions.
For the first time in the festival’s history, festivities will begin with a Friday night kick-off. On Friday, Oct. 3, 2025, there will be a lively celebration under the big tent at the Oklahoma Czechs Inc. building located at N. 5th St. and Cedar Ave. in Yukon. From 5 p.m. to 10 p.m., Friday night visitors can enjoy the atmosphere of a traditional Czech pivo (beer) garden, complete with Czech beer brewed from authentic Czech hops by Anthem Brewery of Oklahoma City. Custom-labeled beer mugs, authentic Czech food, including kolaches, and live entertainment will round out the evening. The Masopust Polka Band and special guest performers will provide festive music, while the nearby Czech Festival carnival opens just east of the tent for added fun.
The celebration continues on Saturday, Oct. 4, beginning at 10 a.m. with the beloved parade down Main Street in Yukon, followed by a full day of vibrant cultural programming on two performance stages, expanded activities, and authentic experiences for all ages.
Festival Highlights Include:
- Friday night kick-off on Oct. 3 outside the Oklahoma Czechs Inc. building at N. 5th St. and Cedar Ave. in Yukon. This event will feature festive music, a traditional pivo (beer) garden, and outdoor party for guests to enjoy.
- Festival Day (Saturday, Oct. 4)
- Parade through Downtown Yukon featuring floats, community groups, dancers, and dignitaries. Starts at 10 a.m. on Main Street in Yukon.
- Czech Royalty and Pageant Winners in full kroj (traditional dress)
- Polka music & cultural performances on multiple stages
- Authentic Czech cuisine, including kolaches, klobása (sausage), and more
- Craft vendors & cultural exhibits showcasing Czech heritage
- Kid-friendly activities, including a carnival, photo ops, and educational opportunities for all ages
A dance and Grand March to recognize the newly crowned 2025-26 Royalty will be held at the Oklahoma Czech Hall located at 205 N. Czech Hall Rd. in Yukon Saturday night. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. and the dance is from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. Admission is $10. Children 10 and under are free. Traditional Czech food, pivo (beer) will be available along with soda, popcorn, and more. Longtime renowned house bands, The Masopust Polka Band and The Bohemian Knights, will be performing a collection of traditional polka and modern dance numbers for guests to enjoy. Dances at the Czech Hall have been held for over 125 years.
“This festival is not just about honoring the past,” says Oklahoma Czechs, Inc. President Kim Landes Rex, “It’s about creating meaningful moments for families, building bridges through shared traditions, and celebrating the richness of our Czech-American identity.”
The Oklahoma Czech Festival is organized by Oklahoma Czechs, Inc., a nonprofit dedicated to preserving and promoting Czech heritage in Oklahoma. Over the decades, the festival has become a cornerstone event for the city of Yukon and continues to grow each year.
Additional Details:
- Location: Downtown Yukon, OK (N. 5th St. and Cedar Avenue)
- Admission: Free and open to the public
- Schedule of events, maps, and sponsorship opportunities available at https://www.czechfestivaloklahoma.com
Follow the Oklahoma Czech Festival on Facebook and Instagram for the latest updates, cultural features, and behind-the-scenes previews.
Join us as we honor the legacy, share the language, and polka into the future at the 59th Annual Oklahoma Czech Festival!
The Oklahoma Czech Festival is a family-friendly event celebrating the heritage and traditions of the Czech community in Oklahoma. Since 1966, Oklahoma Czechs, Inc. has hosted the Oklahoma Czech Festival to preserve and share the customs and heritage the Czech and Slovak immigrants brought from their homeland. Yukon is proudly known as the Czech Capital of Oklahoma and celebrates its rich culture throughout the year. For more information, visit www.czechfestivaloklahoma.com.