Taste of Polonia

What Is the Taste of Polonia Festival?

The Taste of Polonia is Chicago’s largest Polish heritage festival, held every Labor Day weekend at Jefferson Park (4822 N. Long Ave). You’ll sample authentic pierogi, kielbasa and oscypek cheese from 100+ Polish food vendors, alongside kielbasa sandwiches and craft beer. As Poland’s vibrant culture takes center stage, you’ll find folk-dance ensembles, live polka bands and children’s folk-art workshops—bringing Chicago’s historic Polish-American community to life.

How Can You Experience Polish Cuisine & Culture?

• Ready to explore Polish flavors? Here’s how we recommend you dive in together:
• Food Passport: Purchase a tasting card at the main entrance to sample pierogi varieties, golabki (cabbage rolls) and paczki donuts.
• Live Music & Dance: Two stages host polka orchestras, mazurka dance troupes and DJs spinning Polish pop from 1–9 PM.
• Family Zone: Let the kids color wycinanki paper-cut art, try stilt-walking lessons, or join the pierogi-eating contest.
• Artisan Market: Browse handmade amber jewelry, linen crafts and traditional Bolesławiec pottery from local artisans.

Quick Tips:

Beat the Crowds: Arrive by 11 AM on Saturday for easier parking and shorter food lines.

Transit Options: Take the CTA Blue Line to Jefferson Park station—just a 5-minute walk.

Weather Prep: Bring a light jacket; late August evenings can be breezy near the Metra tracks.

Why It Matters

Taste of Polonia isn’t just a food festival—it’s a celebration of Chicago’s proud Polish heritage, supporting local schools and cultural programs. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a pierogi aficionado, this festival beckons with bold flavors, live entertainment and community spirit. Check out our Lake.com Chicago Events Guide for more ways to plan your lakeside weekend escape—together, let’s make this Labor Day one to remember!