Moravia Fest cranks up this Saturday

There's a country gathering in Lavaca County this Saturday as the tiny community of Moravia hosts Moravia Fest, a day-long celebration of food, tractors, and polka tunes.

The activities are held at the Moravia Store located on FM 957 between Hallettsville and Schulenburg. The festival acts as an anniversary party for store owner Henrietta Filip, who purchased the establishment 22 years ago.

The store hosts semi-regular dances in the back room and keeps a fresh stock of cold beer while serving burgers and tunes from a classic juke box. But Saturday's celebration brings more fare to town than usual.

The South Texas Wheel Spinners and Crank Twisters antique farm equipment show starts the day at 10 a.m. Tractor rides will take off at 3 p.m., which is an hour-long tour through the countryside. Participants must furnish their own tractors, though. This year's show features one-cylinder engines and various restoration projects from area ag mechanics classes.

Food will be available with burgers sold during the day and sausage with sauerkraut available during the evening. All events that day are free to attend.

Music will be played by Mark Halata and Texavia from 8 p.m.-midnight, who will be providing a mix of country, polkas and waltzes. Halata plays the fest most years and this time will serve as a CD release party for his latest effort.

Filip also mentions that their back room is available for rent to host parties, private events, anniversaries, and even weddings. Those interested can call the store at 979-562-2217.