Several Polish Events In The Chicago Region

By Sylvia Wiertel

The Polish Folk Dance Association of the Americas is celebrating its 25th anniversary with a gala concert of Polish folk dances on Friday, August 3, at 8 p.m. at the Arie Crown Theater, located at 2301 S. Lake Shore Dr. Its local affiliate, the Wesoly Lud Polish Folk Dance Ensemble of the Polish Roman Catholic Union of America will host the 12th North American Polish Folk Dance Festival from July 28 through August 4 at Loyola University. It will include workshops with folk dance specialists from various regions of Poland. The gala concert of 200 dancers will also take place at the Arie Crown Theater.

A Taste of Polonia, hosted by the Copernicus Foundation, will be held Friday, August 31, through Monday, September 3, at 5216 W. Lawrence Ave. The festival includes Polish customs, traditions and cultural heritage. It also includes Polish cuisine, non-stop music on three stages, handcrafts and artisans. Music includes rock, blues, jazz tribute bands and more. Polka bands include, among others, Eddie Blazonczyk & the Versatones; Polkaholics; Joe Walega; Pan Franek, Zosia & the Polka Towners; and the Ampol Aires. Various dance groups, comedy and other entertainment will also perform. More than 1.5 million people have attended the annual Taste of Polonia during the past 27 years.

The weekend after Labor Day, members of Nest 45, St. Louis, Mo., will once again host the very popular Polish Fest at their Nest Home, 2013 St. Louis Ave. The members spend most of the summer preparing the food. With excellent Polish music, food and fun, it is an experience you don’t want to miss. They always have a big selection of Polish crafts, butter lamb molds, tart makers, books, maps and various other items for sale. Turn to Page 12 of this issue for more information.