See Czech clock tower figurines in Cedar Rapids before winter “hibernation”

CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa — The hand-carved figurines that have captivated passersby since the new Buresh Immigration Clock Tower was unveiled this year in Czech Village will take a winter nap after this weekend.

During the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library’s annual Old World Christmas Market, on Saturday, Dec. 7, and Sunday, Dec. 8, 2024, the figurines will be dancing every hour on the hour.

After Dec. 8, they will retire to their tower until spring 2025. The Prague-style astronomical clock, or orloj, was a collaboration between the museum, clock experts SPEL Company of the Czech Republic, and Slovakian artist Andrej Haršány, who used white oak from near his home to create the clock tower’s figurines.

See more: Clock tower dedication with Czech and Slovak presidents

The Buresh Immigration Clock Tower was dedicated Sept. 27, 2024, as part of the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library’s 50th anniversary. (photo/Cindy Hadish)

The Old World Christmas Market runs from 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Dec. 7 and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Dec. 8, at the museum at 1400 Inspiration Place SW, featuring local handcrafted items, baked goods, entertainment and activities for people of all ages.

Inspired by traditional European markets, the event is a celebration of culture, community and holiday cheer and is free for the entire weekend, including admission to all museum galleries.

Additionally, the Czech Village Association is hosting a tree-lighting ceremony at 6:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 6, at the Kosek Bandstand, with the Czech tradition of Svatý Mikuláš — known as Saint Nicholas Day in the United States — preceding the tree lighting at 76 16th Ave. SW.

See more from a past Svatý Mikuláš celebration.