Karlovo Square in Kolín came alive with music, dance, and a wave of solidarity. The sixteenth edition of the popular Toyota Beat Festival attracted more than five thousand visitors of all generations. The festival once again offered not only concerts by well-known performers, but also a platform for emerging regional bands, whose support has long been one of its key goals. At the same time, visitors witnessed the presentation of Toyota grants supporting the Kolín region and contributed together to charitable causes.
This year’s edition once again confirmed the festival’s position as an integral part of the region’s cultural heart. The main stage showcased a rich variety of genres. The duo Krhut & Kozub achieved tremendous success; Tata Bojs and Kateřina Marie Tichá & Bandjeez energized the crowd, while the square sang along to the timeless hits of Ivan Mládek & Banjo Band. The bands The Elevators and Kupra, winner of the Toyota Beat Festival 2024, also delivered excellent performances.
A thrilling contest of regional talent
Emerging regional bands were also given space to perform. On the main stage with professional sound, the bands Duhaj, Punefix, Aparath, L8 N1TES, and Misha Ryzak Projekt competed for the audience’s favor.
The winner was decided by visitors themselves through SMS voting. The band Aparath received the most votes and also took home a CZK 50,000 cheque to support their further musical development.
Millions for the region: Presentation of Toyota grants
A highlight of the day was the official announcement and presentation of the Toyota grants. Through this initiative, Toyota has long and systematically supported the development of the Kolín region in key areas such as the environment, safety, sports, culture, and education. Representatives of the company presented cheques on stage totaling CZK 2,346,007.
These funds will help implement projects by local organizations, associations, and schools — from modernizing school gardens and classrooms to supporting volunteer firefighters, a home hospice, preventive programs for youth, and the development of sports. As part of the support for the city of Kolín, a Toyota Proace vehicle was also handed over, which will facilitate transportation for local sports clubs to their matches.
Meaningful support
In addition to major corporate grants, the festival connected culture with direct support for individuals. Thanks to the generosity of visitors, who contributed on-site or online via the Tessero platform, a total of CZK 100,500 was raised in the charity collection. The proceeds will be shared — supporting the wind orchestra of the Kolín Elementary School of Arts, as well as funding the purchase of a specialized walker for twelve-year-old Laduška, who has cerebral palsy, helping her with everyday mobility.
A program for the whole family
Alongside the music program, the festival also offered a rich accompanying program for all generations. Families with children enjoyed creative workshops, a fire truck, as well as popular attractions such as airbrush art and a festival hair studio. The health and prevention zone also attracted great interest, where visitors could undergo preventive health check-ups free of charge.
The Toyota Beat Festival has successfully closed its sixteenth chapter, once again confirming that quality music can bring people together and contribute to a good cause.
Ondřej Malínský
Toyota Motor Manufacturing Czech Republic, s.r.o.
Průmyslová zóna Ovčáry 280
280 02 Kolín
E-mail: ondrej.malinsky@toyotacz.com
Send general offers and requests to: info@toyotacz.com