In 1976, a Texas Czech festival began as a fundraiser; 50 years later, couples married that year returned to its parade as grandparents with their children and grandchildren

In the small city of West, Texas, a annual celebration of Czech heritage began in 1976 as a modest fundraiser to support the local community. What started as a single day of polka music, kolaches and a hometown parade has grown over five decades into one of the state’s most beloved cultural festivals.