Dyngus Day: A Huge Celebration for Families of WNY

Catholic school families are amongst the thousands of Western New Yorkers anticipating the annual celebration.  Known as the Dyngus Capital of America," Buffalo will be hosting the largest Polish festival in the nation for the 10th year. Both Polish and non-Polish families of WNY Catholic schools are invited, as there is something for everyone to enjoy!

 

Celebrated the Monday after Easter, Dyngus Day attracts thousands of people of all ages. In addition to the annual parade, you can expect to find Polish and non-Polish families eating traditional Polish sausage, pierogies and other Polish-inspired foods, all while listening and dancing to some of the best Polka bands in the nation.

 

In a city with over 35,000 Polish-Americans, Buffalo is the place to experience real Polish traditions . Did you know Buffalo has the sixth-largest Polish community in the United States? This means many of the students and families of Catholic schools in Buffalo are of Polish descent, and will be celebrating Dyngus Day.

 

Of course, the day wouldn't be complete without the presence of the pussy willow. On Easter Monday, it's a tradition for the boys to sprinkle the girls with water and tap them with pussy willows. On Easter Tuesday, the girls must return the favor to the boys. The Polish use the pussy willow for this day because it's the first budding plant of spring.

 

Not Polish? Not a problem. Everyone is welcome participate in this day of celebration. As the popular polka anthem says, "Everyone is Polish on Dyngus Day!"

 

For more information about the festivities, and to see the various activities for everyone from Catholic elementary students, to high school students, and fun strictly for mom and dad, go to www.dyngusday.com.