From the Wausau Daily Herald: Polish fest celebrates ethnicity, togetherness

MOSINEE — The Rev. Marion Talaga is proud that his church celebrates central Wisconsin’s Polish heritage — but that doesn’t mean the festival in its honor is by any means exclusive.

“We want everyone to come,” he said, casting aside preferences of nationality, religion and background in general. “I’m just enjoying these people.”

The 33rd annual Polish Fest, put on by Our Savior National Catholic Church in Mosinee, will be held Saturday and Sunday. Organizers are again promising traditional Polish food, live music and activities.

Traditional Polish food will include the pierogi — a large dumpling filled with various combinations of potatoes, cheese, meat or sauerkraut. But it’s not exclusive, Talaga said, with hamburgers and other popular items available.

Polka bands will provide the music, performing polka, country and other varieties of music. There also will be a polka dancing contest, and on Sunday the church’s popular polka Mass.

And kids can enjoy a variety of games, in addition to all the traditional fun.

The result is a well-rounded community event, Talaga said.

Talaga also emphasized the event’s affordability, with free admission and organizers keeping the price of food and games down.

That, he hopes, will encourage everyone to become a part of the tradition.

“We try to make sure that we do keep our tradition alive,” he said.

Details:

When: 4 to 11 pm Saturday, polka Mass 10:30am, Sunday, with festival continuing until 8pm.
Where: Mosinee Recreation Center, 701 11th St., Mosinee, WI
Cost: Free
Contact: 715-693-2241

Parish information:
Our Saviour PNCC
802 Jackson Street
Mosinee, WI 54455-1347
Telephone: 715-693-2241