Get ready for the annual Muskegon Polish Festival!
A two-day celebration held every Labor Day weekend on Friday and Saturday.
Picture Perfect Setting in Muskegon
The Muskegon Polish Festival takes place in historic Hackley Park in Downtown Muskegon. This beach town on Lake Michigan is known for its seasonal attractions, and the festival has become a beloved tradition marking the shift from summer to autumn. Visitors from across the country, including California, travel to enjoy the festival each year. (Check it out on the Visit Muskegon Calendar of Events HERE)
Food, Fun and Music
Enjoy the authentic flavors of Poland! The festival features a delicious selection of traditional Polish foods, such as golabki, pierogi, kielbasa, and kapusta. Beer enthusiasts can savor three types of Polish beer imported straight from Poland. Families will enjoy a variety of free children's activities, including face painting, caricature drawings, and balloon art.
Toast to Tradition
Thirsty for a taste of Poland? Swing by the beverage tent to raise a glass—or a "Shot-ski"—with friends! Sip on authentic Polish beers like Tyskie or Warka, or try a Polish Mule from our local Vodka Bar featuring Muskegon’s own Wonderland Distilling Co. Whether you're craving a Piwo (beer), wino (wine), or a classic vodka shot, there’s something for everyone. Even non-drinkers have options, so come clink glasses and say "Na zdrowie!
Polka, Shop, and Savor
Don’t forget to explore our market vendors for unique Polish merchandise - perfect for getting a head start on your holiday shopping. Enjoy live polka music and dancing and be sure to check out the live cooking demonstrations where you can learn to make traditional Polish dishes. Visit our history tent to dive into Polish culture and heritage, offering something special for everyone at the Muskegon Polish Festival!
That Dance Floor!
The iconic polka dance floor, a beloved feature since the festival’s second year, is a crowd-pleaser. Designed by two dedicated Muskegon Polish Festival volunteers, this unique dance floor provides the perfect bounce for polka enthusiasts. After years of lively dancing, the floor was lovingly restored in the summer of 2023, ensuring its continued enjoyment for generations to come.
How It All Began
The Polish heritage journey began in 2012. A group of Polish community members came together to revive the celebration of Polish heritage, which was lost with the end of the Seaway Polka Festival. Led by former President Tom Sanocki and Vice President Len Piasecki, the Muskegon Polish Festival was born in 2015. Today, a passionate team of volunteer board members continues to carry this torch, ensuring that Polish traditions and culture remain alive and well. The board meets monthly for planning sessions, which are open to the public and offer a glimpse into our ongoing efforts to celebrate Polish culture.
Mission and Community Impact
With six percent of Muskegon County residents identifying as having Polish heritage according to the 2020 census, the Muskegon Polish Festival is dedicated to celebrating and sharing Polish culture through live polka music, food, and dance in a family-friendly atmosphere. As a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization, they also focus on giving back to the community. Since inception, approximately $50,000 has been reinvested into local organizations such as Noah’s Project, Kids’ Food Basket, Catholic Charities of West Michigan, and the Salvation Army’s Turning Point programs.
