The 45th Annual Polish Heritage Day will kick off the 2024 Cultural Heritage Celebrations on Sunday, May 19, noon to 6 p.m. at Kensico Dam Plaza in Valhalla.
The festival will showcase Polish American cultural exhibits, polka music and dancing featuring a children’s polish school performance. Meet the 2024 Parade Marshall and Miss Polonia, sample authentic Polish foods and baked goods while browsing a variety of vendors selling Polish crafts.
Westchester County Executive George Latimer said, “We proudly host a series of ethnic festivals each summer, which provide Westchester County Residents with the opportunity to explore various cultures. Ethnic festivals are an ideal opportunity to learn about our neighbors, their customs, cuisine, religions, art, music and traditions that are handed down from generation to generation. These events open the door to a global perspective without leaving the County.”
Westchester County Parks Commissioner Kathy O’Connor said, “Come celebrate the pride and traditions of the Polish Community at Westchester’s very own ‘Central Park.’ Enjoy a day out with family and friends dancing the Polka while sampling authentic Polish cuisine and treats.”
The festival will be held rain or shine. Seating is informal; bring blankets or folding chairs for seating on the lawn. No coolers will be allowed. Admission and parking are free.*
The other heritage festivals in the series are:
· Asian-American, Saturday, June 1, Noon to 6 p.m., Kensico Dam Plaza, Valhalla
· Albanian, Sunday, June 2, Noon to 6 p.m., Kensico Dam Plaza, Valhalla
· African-American, Sunday, June 23, Noon to 6 p.m., Kensico Dam Plaza, Valhalla
· Hispanic, Sunday, July 7, Noon to 6 p.m., Kensico Dam Plaza, Valhalla
· Irish-American, Sunday, July 14, Noon to 6 p.m., Ridge Road Park, Hartsdale
*Admission: $5 adults; free for ages 14 and under
· Italian, Sunday, July 21, Noon to 6 p.m., Kensico Dam Plaza, Valhalla
· India, Sunday, Aug. 4, Noon to 6 p.m., Kensico Dam Plaza, Valhalla
· Jewish, Sunday, Aug. 18, Noon to 6 p.m., Kensico Dam Plaza, Valhalla
· Muslim Heritage, Sunday, Aug. 25, Noon to 6 p.m., Kensico Dam Plaza, Valhalla
Kensico Dam Plaza is located at the north end of the Bronx River Parkway, in Valhalla. Ridge Road Park is located at 287 Ridge Road, Hartsdale.
Please be advised that on May 19, June 2 and June 23, the Bronx River Parkway will be closed for Bicycle Sundays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. between Scarsdale Road in Yonkers and the Westchester County Center in White Plains. On July 7, 14 and 21 the parkway will be closed 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. The park can be accessed via Route 22, from the north or south.
This event is sponsored by Westchester County Parks and the Westchester Pulaski Association.
Go to parks.westchestergov.com or call 914-231-4500.
