05/25/2026
On May 23, 2026, Miss Czech Slovak US Queen 2025–2026 Madelyn Karstedt attended the 60th Annual National Polka Festival in Ennis, Texas.
The day began with the parade through downtown Ennis, followed by introductions at the bandstand alongside Miss Texas Czech-Slovak Queen Kyla Jupe, Miss Oklahoma Czech-Slovak Royalty Queen Eden Tlapak-Simmons, Miss WestFest Grace Blanton, other Texas Czech Slovak royalty, and visiting dignitaries from Pardubice region Czech Republic. Throughout the day, Madelyn participated in the traditional maypole with musical accompaniment by Pardubická muzika, was introduced at the dance halls, enjoyed performances by the Czech-Slovak dancers of CHS, met National Polka Festival royalty as well as Kelly Rubes, the first ever Miss Texas Czech Queen and First Runner Up at the first National Czech Queen Pageant, listened to wonderful polka bands, and of course spent plenty of time dancing the polka.
Thank you to everyone who worked so hard to organize and make the 60th Annual National Polka Festival such a memorable celebration of Czech heritage, music, culture, and community. Your dedication keeps these traditions alive for future generations. Thank you to Kyle Stuckly of Czech Heritage Society of Texas - Ellis County for being such a gracious host to all attending royalty!