By Kasia Golec
The Cathedral of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus hosted Knoxville’s first Polish Heritage Festival on Aug. 3 in a milestone that was long-awaited and embraced by the Polish community.
The festival’s high point was a performance by the Zaradni Highlander Group from Chicago. Zaradni, founded in 2007, brought 80 youths, including the Little Zaradni and Big Zaradni troupes, to the festival. The performers’ lively dancing, singing, and music captivated attendees.
The centerpiece of the festival was Mass celebrated by Father David Boettner, rector of the cathedral, and concelebrated by cathedral associate pastors Father Martin Gladysz and Father Jhon Mario Garcia. Deacon Walt Otey assisted the Mass.
Following Mass, the Zaradni Highlander Group entertained attendees with their vibrant attire and melodies.
The Highlander group was present at Mass, bringing the gifts to the altar. Group members shared traditional Polish gifts like Polish bread, bottled wine, sausage, and Oscypek, a traditional Polish cheese made in the highlands. The Mass was enriched by the colorful, traditional Highlander attire.
Father Boettner and Father Gladysz received beautiful Highlander vestments as a token of the Polish community’s gratitude.
“This festival will certainly remain in our memory for a long time, and we will cherish it for years to come,” local group members said about the festival’s impact.
A particularly moving moment occurred when the local Polish group, including Chris Lyszczarczyk, Jolanta Didenko, Iza Ostafilczuk, and Wacek Konieczny, performed “Bo wszyscy Polacy to jedna rodzina” (“Because all Poles are one family”). Many in the audience were moved to tears by this touching and heartfelt performance.
“We are thrilled to report that we served between 800-1000 people, a testament to the incredible teamwork and preparation that went into this event. Our heartfelt thanks extend to our generous sponsors and everyone who made monetary donations, used Venmo, or contributed delicious traditional dishes. Your support was crucial in ensuring there was an abundance of food, with additional supplies brought from Chicago by our local business, Alphaland Excavation, including exclusive Polish beer,” Polish Heritage Festival organizers said.
The organizers added that the festival’s success also was due to the dedication of volunteers.
“Their tireless efforts were essential in making this event possible. We are deeply grateful to Iwona Montgomery, Mariola Cieslik, Renata Morgan, Anna Zorawski, Patrycia Leja, Marta Nicole Rodzen, and Chris Lyszczarczyk for their hard work and unwavering support. Special thanks also go to Piotr Bryja, Krystyna Solarz, Andrzej and Ela Bryja, and Dawid Fafrowicz for preparing 80 pounds of sausages, a true highlight of the festival. Mark Morgan, our kitchen manager, and Zofia Glashauser, who managed kitchen operations and food service, played crucial roles in ensuring everything ran smoothly. We also appreciate Kuba Wiktor for his diverse contributions, Carly Couch and James Tidwell for their fantastic work in beer sales, and Mickey, who traveled from Chattanooga to help with setup and stayed until the end to assist with various tasks,” the organizers added.
The organizers also expressed gratitude to volunteers who helped serve food, distribute brochures, and sang.
“We were thrilled to see people coming from other cities and states, including South Carolina, which underscores the festival’s significance and appeal. And we look forward to building on this success and hope to see even more community support in the future. Thanks to everyone who participated and helped make this festival a memorable and cherished celebration of Polish heritage,” the Polish Heritage Festival organizers noted, encouraging those interested in participating in the festival to contact them at PLknoxville@gmail.com.
