The breeze was warm as the smell of kolaches/BBQ and the sound of music from the Kolache Fest made its way into town. This past weekend at the Knights of Columbus Hall, the all-day festivities brought smiles to everyone’s faces, filling the day with celebrations for Czech culture.
Bright and early Saturday morning, the event kicked off with a 5K run, and the annual Kolache Fest Parade made its trip from the park, around the courthouse, and back to the park, filling the streets with the floats that represent the city of Hallettsville. Everyone lined the street to watch the parade go past. The 5K and the parade were the perfect start to Kolache Fest.
Arriving at the K of C hall, the parking lot was packed with cars as people from towns and communities across the area came together to celebrate a love of kolaches, polka music, and a good time.
Walking into the main area, the sound of people talking filled the air; the smell of delicious food wafted from the many food trucks and stands. The food options were endless. Lunch options such as chicken strips and burgers, not to mention the iconic 8-foot pizza made by Dirt Road Cookers, feed plenty of people. Festival goers could also satisfy their sweet tooth with treats like funnel cakes or kettle corn.
Kolache Fest would not be complete without the naming of the Kolache Queen. This year, the apron was awarded to Caroline Steffek. There were many varieties of Kolaches being sold, from cream cheese to cherry. Each kolache was expertly handcrafted, filled with a sweet filling and soft, fluffy dough that was guaranteed to make your mouth water.
Food wasn’t the only thing being sold. Vendors lined the pavilion, selling everything patrons could want. There was music playing all day, dancing, and a domino tournament going on inside the hall.
The 30th annual Hallettsville Kolache Fest was a huge success this year. The Kolache Fest will always be a staple of Hallettsville’s culture for years to come, ready to fill each year with new fun, food, and music.