The summer festival season has officially arrived in Cedar Rapids with the start of Uptown Friday Nights and the 2018 Houby Days Czech Festival this past weekend.

Houby Days is a traditional Czech celebration that pays homage to the fans of the popular seasonal Morel mushroom. The elusive treat is found in the wild and only during springtime.

The colorful festival features costumed participants, street vendors, face painting, classic cars and tasty fare from BBQ, fresh lemonade and famous Kolache pastries and cookies.

This year's event was another winner with terrific weather, and lots of people. And next year should be even bigger with the opening of the new Mt. Trashmore park that looms in the distance just a short walk south.

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