HISTORical factoids
The Polkanauts have been playing together, in one iteration or another, since 2007. Formed in Denver, CO by a polka loving Wisconsinite, and a Romanian accordionist, the band soon added a drummer and a bass player and started touring the world.
In 2010 the Polkanauts toured England, and embarked on a musical pilgrimage to Stonehenge, where they unearthed a magical accordion hidden within the stones. Once they started playing it, the ancient monument resonated and awakened the spirits of long-forgotten polka druids.
Returning to Denver, they became infamous for their exploration of the unknown frontiers of polka and continue to entertain audiences with their eclectic blend of polka, rock, and metal.
They have performed over 200 shows including:
Denver Oktoberfest (2024, 2022, 2021, 2019, 2018, 2017, 2016, 2015, 2011)
Vail Oktoberfest (2024, 2023, 2022)
Breckenridge Oktoberfest (2024, 2023, 2022, 2021, 2019, 2018, 2017, 2016)
Tulsa Oktoberfest (2023, 2021, 2019, 2017, 2015)
Soulard Oktoberfest, St.Louis (2012)
FAQ
What does your name mean?
We take polka to outer space, we are polka astronauts/cosmonauts, hence polkanauts.
What’s with the orange outfits?
These are our astronaut outfits.
Does your mascot on stilts come to all the shows?
No, only by special request.
Does your accordionist still play a C-system chromatic button accordion?
No.
LINEUP
James
Bass and lead vocals.
Wade
Drums. Keepin’ it fine on the back line.
Florin
Aka the pianosnake on accordion.
Dan
The man. On guitar.