Fat Thursday Polish Paczki Party - Polish American Cultural Center
Fat Thursday (Tlusty Czwartek) Polish Paczki Party Polish American Cultural Center 6501 Lansing Avenue, Cleveland February 27, 2025
The Cleveland Polish community gathered at the Polish American Cultural Center in the heart of Slavic Village on February 27, 2025 to celebrate with a Fat Thursday Paczki Party. Fat Thursday, or Tlusty Czwartek, is the last day to eat lots of fatty, sugary food and drink alcohol before Lent. There was a lot of great food and drink and, of course, paczki - in many flavors.
Agnieszka Kotlarsic serving food
The Tom Katrenich Orchestra entertained the crowd and the dance floor was always full.
The musicians were Jeff Domzalski - Bass, Brian Earl - Drums, Troy Gawlak - Concertina, Michal Golab - Vocals, Tom Katrenich - Accordion, Walt Mahovlich - Clarinet/Sax, Mike Papai - Trumpet and Joe Rogucki - Banjo.
Tom Katrenich Orchestra
Here is a video of the classic polka tune "Who Stole the Kishka?" which was composed in the 1950s by Walter Dana, with lyrics by Walter Solek.
Another popular song was "Jak sie masz kochanie" (Happy End) which translates to "How are you my love?". During the song, Tom Katrenich introduced the members of the band.
The lower level of the Polish American Cultural Center had a bar and music from Opus 216.
Opus 216 performing
There is an interesting sign on the wall that I had to ask about.
First drink is to Pan Zagloba
Jan Onufry Zagloba is a fictional character in the Trilogy by Henryk Sienkiewicz. Together with other characters of The Trilogy, Zagloba engages in various adventures, fighting for the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth, and seeking adventures and glory. Wikipedia says, "He is the symbol of undying optimism and hope, and a strategist who can find his way out of trouble. He is often considered both a comic figure as well as the patriotic hero, even if the latter more often comes from the necessity of the moment. He is respected for his ideas, intelligence and a sharp tongue".
There were tours of the Polish Heritage Museum and lots of good camaraderie. But the food, served by volunteers such as these, was a highlight.
Agnieszka Kotlarsic and Cathy Katrenich
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