Cedar Rapids Gears Up for 46th Annual “Houby” Day Festival Parade Celebrating Czech and Slovak Heritage
In the heart of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, the Czech Village Association and Czech Heritage Foundation are set to ignite the streets with the vibrant colors and rich traditions of the 46th Annual “Houby” Day Festival Parade on Saturday, May 18, 2024.
With a fervent call to honor their heritage, parade organizers are rallying participants from all walks of life to join in the festivities. From family walking units and schools to military representatives and youth groups, everyone is invited to express the spirit of their ancestry. Bands will fill the air with melodies, and decorated floats will showcase the creativity and pride of the community.
The day kicks off with a flurry of activity as floats line up on the East side of the River along the East Side of 2nd Street SE, starting at the corner of 16th Ave. S.E. Staging begins promptly at 8:30 AM, setting the stage for a day filled with joy and camaraderie.
As the sun rises over Cedar Rapids, a solemn flag raising ceremony at the Kosek Band Stand, led by Scouts and the American Legion, will mark the beginning of the day’s festivities. The Czech Plus Band will fill the air with patriotic tunes, stirring the hearts of onlookers.
At the helm of this year’s parade stands a figure of inspiration and resilience: Hannah Stuelke, the acclaimed University of Iowa Athletics standout and Iowa women’s basketball player, will lead the procession as the Grand Marshal. Joining her is the esteemed Mayor of Cedar Rapids, Tiffany O’Donnell, embodying the unity and leadership that define the community.
This year, the Houby Day Celebration pays homage to a pillar of dedication and love for Czech Village: Mary Kay McGrath. Her unwavering commitment to preserving Czech and Slovak heritage has left an indelible mark on the community, and this celebration is a testament to her legacy.
But beyond the festivities and fanfare lies a deeper significance. “Houby” – the Czech word for mushrooms – holds a special place in the hearts of Czechs and Slovaks. It symbolizes not just a source of food, but a cherished family activity that transcends generations. As the saying goes, “All mushrooms are edible, at least once!” Families bond over mushroom hunting, passing down traditions from one generation to the next.
In Cedar Rapids, the Houby festival is more than just a celebration; it’s a reaffirmation of cultural identity and a testament to the enduring spirit of community. Through food, music, games, and activities, the festival aims to create a fun-filled day that honors the rich tapestry of Czech and Slovak heritage.
As the parade winds its way through Czech Village, crossing over the iconic “Bridge of Lions” and culminating on C St. S.W., residents and visitors alike are invited to come together and support their community. It’s a day to celebrate the past, embrace the present, and look forward to the future, united in the shared values that define Cedar Rapids.
