Looking Back at 2025 with Veselica

As we look back on 2025, we feel pride and gratitude for everything we were able to achieve together as a community. This year was marked by renewal, growth, and collaboration—from the development of folk music and the education of young musicians, to the expansion of our dance ensemble and the recruitment of new members. Veselica continues to fulfill its role as a living bearer of Slovak cultural heritage in Chicago and the surrounding area.

We extend our thank yous to all our dancers, musicians, children, parents, volunteers, supporters, friends, and partners who have been part of this journey.

Veselica Gala 2025

The year 2025 began with our most significant event—Veselica Gala 2025, held for the 11th time and welcoming more than 600 guests. The Gala has long been Veselica’s largest social and cultural event and remains our key fundraising initiative, enabling us to carry out artistic, educational, and community activities throughout the year.

The gala evening featured a new dance and music program prepared by Veselica’s long-time Artistic Director, Zuzana Fidriková. We extend our sincere thanks to her for her tremendous dedication, professionalism, and lasting contribution to the artistic growth and authenticity of the ensemble.

Renewal and Development of Veselica Folk Music

One of the most important achievements of 2025 was the renewal and development of Veselica’s folk music ensemble, made possible through the financial support of the Office for Slovaks Living Abroad (USZZ).

Regular music rehearsals laid strong foundations for educating a new generation of young musicians. Special attention was given to the cimbalom—an iconic instrument of Slovak folk music. Under the guidance of Alex Udváry, the number of cimbalom students grew from one to five. Young musicians are also gradually joining on violin, viola, double bass, and accordion. These steps are essential for building a fully developed young folk band that will accompany both Veselica and Veselička ensembles.

Performances and Representation of Slovak Culture

Throughout 2025, Veselica and Veselička represented Slovak culture at numerous important events, including:

• United 86th Moravian Festival, Lemont, IL

• Skokie International Festival of Cultures

• Hurá Leto Picnic of the Slovak Mission

• Picnic and Feast of Our Lady of Sorrows in Palos Hills

• Cultural visit and performance at the Czech & Slovak Museum in Cedar Rapids, in collaboration with the Slovak Academy of Chicago

• We concluded the year with a Christmas gathering featuring a concert by young musicians and cimbalom students led by Alex Udváry, beautifully demonstrating the progress and importance of systematic work with youth.

Performances at events organized by the Slovak Mission and the United Moravian Societies (UMS) were carried out in the spirit of volunteerism and cultural service to the community. Veselica also expressed its support for UMS during their participation in the International Folklore Festival in Strážnice, Czech Republic.

Education, Workshops, and Youth Development

Throughout the year, regular rehearsals took place for:

• the adult and youth Veselica ensemble,

• the children’s folklore ensemble Veselička,

• the Veselička Young Musicians group.

These activities were enhanced by intensive dance and music workshops led by professional instructors from Slovakia, including the Michal Noga Band (music workshops) and dance educators Alfred Lincke and Lucia Nogová.

Living Traditions and the Slovak Community in Chicago

Veselica has a long-standing collaboration with the Slovak Academy of Chicago, where it supports the teaching of Slovak folk dance during Saturday classes. Veselica also actively participated in events focused on traditional customs and folk traditions. At the Easter event Painted Egg (Maľované vajíčko) organized by the Slovak Academy of Chicago, Veselica members helped children braid traditional whips and decorate Easter eggs. And as tradition dictates, the girls of Veselica and Veselička were not spared the Easter water-splashing, prepared by the men and boys of both ensembles.

Support for the Slovak Catholic Mission

Veselica and its members have long supported the Slovak Catholic Mission in Palos Hills, not only through artistic performances but also through active volunteer and logistical assistance. Veselica members contributed to the organization and execution of events such as the Hurá Leto Picnic, the Feast Celebration, parish festivities, and the traditional Christmas Eve Dinner.

The Slovak Mission has become a true home for Veselica—a place where regular trainings, rehearsals, and meetings of both the adult Veselica ensemble and the children’s Veselička ensemble take place. We sincerely thank the Slovak Mission for its openness, support, and for creating a space where Slovak culture can naturally grow and flourish.

The Importance of Support from the Office for Slovaks Living Abroad (USZZ)

Support from the Office for Slovaks Living Abroad (USZZ) plays a vital role for Veselica. In 2025, it enabled us to ensure regular music and dance rehearsals, professional guidance for young musicians, instruction in cimbalom and other traditional instruments, and to cover part of the operational and facility costs associated with the ensemble’s activities.

Thanks to this support, Veselica can focus on its core mission—passing Slovak traditions on to future generations, developing artistic excellence, and creating a safe and inspiring environment for children, youth, and adults alike.

The People Behind Veselica

Veselica’s operation would not be possible without the dedicated work of volunteers, instructors, and leaders who give their time, experience, and heart to the ensemble. Their commitment is the foundation of continuity and quality in our work with both youth and adult members.

Equally important are the parents who support their children’s regular participation in rehearsals, performances, and workshops, helping to build a strong community rooted in cooperation and mutual trust.

We extend our sincere thanks to all members of Veselica and Veselička, parents, instructors, volunteers, partners, and supporters whose work and support allow Veselica to grow, thrive, and remain a vibrant home of Slovak culture.

Thank you, and we look forward to another joyful and healthy year with Veselica in 2026.