Belvedere Chateau, Chicago – February 14, 2024 – The Veselica Slovak Cultural Organization hosted its 10th annual Veselica Gala on February 10th, 2024, at the elegant Belvedere Chateau. The event, attended by over 650 guests, was a spectacular celebration of Slovak culture, featuring special guests from Slovakia, the Slovak Band Basawell.
Among distinguished guests in attendance were the Honorary Consul of Slovakia in Illinois, Rosemary Macko Wisnosky, Deputy Head of Mission, Head of the Consular Department of the Czech Republic, Ondřej Pometlo, Father Bindas of the Slovak Mission in Palos Hills, IL, and other guests from the Chicago metropolitan area. Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Slovak Republic to the United States of America, Radovan Javorčík was not able to attend as planned. Mr. Javorčík sent his greetings in a letter by Mrs. Rosemary Macko Wisnosky, Honorary Consul.
The highlight of the evening was the captivating performance by the Slovak Band Basawell, from Presov, whose lively music enthralled the audience. DJ and radio person, Peter Minarik from local Krajanske Radio led the dance floor with popular Czech, Slovak and other international music hits. The gala also featured Veselica’s band from Chicago, adding to the vibrant atmosphere of the event.
The 10th Veselica Gala was particularly significant as the organization will also celebrate its 25th anniversary this year. Throughout its existence, Veselica has played a pivotal role in bringing the Slovak community together, promoting cultural heritage, and passing down traditions and folklore from generation to generation
The gala was a night filled with joy, dance, music, and a strong sense of unity, reflecting Veselica’s ongoing commitment to fostering a close-knit Slovak-American community and links to the Czech, Moravian, Polish, and other ethnic groups. As the organization looks ahead to the future, it anticipates many more years of promoting Slovak culture and creating memorable experiences for the community.
Members of the Veselica Slovak Cultural Organization expressed gratitude for the enthusiastic support, stating, “We are delighted to have celebrated our 10th annual Veselica Gala with such fervor and community backing. This event not only showcased the rich cultural tapestry of Slovakia but also provided a platform for cultural exchange and friendship. We express our heartfelt gratitude for your support by attending the Veselica Gala dance ball over the years and this year. Thank you!”
Special thanks to our sponsors and supporters
Veselica Gala 2024 Program Booklet
About Veselica Gala Event:
The Veselica Gala, an annual fundraising event and dance ball orchestrated by the Veselica Slovak Cultural Organization, made a debut in 2012 and has since blossomed into a celebration that captivates approximately 650 guests each year. Drawing attendees from various states across the US as well as Canada, the gala serves as a hub where individuals unite to revel in the diverse tapestry of Slovak culture, dance, and music.
This event has evolved into a cultural nexus, fostering connections and a shared sense of identity rooted in Slovak heritage. Over the years, the Veselica Gala has hosted distinguished guests from both the US and Slovakia, including notable figures such as the late DJ Radio Espres, Julo Virsik. The entertainment lineup has featured acclaimed folklore bands like Stefan Stec and Fajta, as well as the melodious tunes of Folk Band Muzikanti from Zvolen and Folk Band Pajtasi from New York, alongside our very own Folk Band Veselica. Significant musical contributions have also emanated from the popular band Iconito with its ‘Korene’ or ‘Roots’ project from Slovakia, creating an electrifying atmosphere that resonates with the diverse audience.
The Veselica Gala has truly transformed into a showcase not only of Slovak traditions but also a cultural exchange, uniting people from far and wide to celebrate, connect, and forge lasting memories. The Veselica Gala stands as the organization’s primary fundraising event, providing crucial support to sustain the folk dance ensembles Veselica and children’s dance ensemble Veselička, as well as our folk band Veselica.
