Photo: Pawel Wewiorski / Moment / Getty Images
The annual Syracuse Polish Festival kicks off today (June 20) in Clinton Square, offering a vibrant celebration of Polish culture, food, and traditions. Running through Sunday (June 22), the festival features a variety of Polish delicacies such as kielbasa, pierogies, and traditional Polish beer.
Organized by the Polish Scholarship Fund, the event aims to preserve and promote Polish heritage in Central New York. The festival not only offers a taste of Polish cuisine but also supports educational opportunities, providing $1,000 scholarships to high school seniors and college students of Polish descent.
Attendees can enjoy a range of activities, including the popular Pierogi Eating Contest and the Miss Polonia presentation. The festival also showcases live music, with performances by bands like the Seven Polka Band and the Diana Jacobs Band, along with folklore dance performances by the Lechowia Dancers from Canada.
The festival is free to attend, making it an accessible event for families and individuals interested in exploring Polish culture. For those looking to immerse themselves in Polish traditions, the festival offers a unique opportunity to experience the rich cultural heritage of Poland in the heart of Syracuse.
According to the Polish Scholarship Fund, the festival has been a staple in the community since its inception in 1954, continuing to draw crowds with its lively atmosphere and cultural offerings.