On Saturday night, February 8, 2014, the members of Houston based Wawel Dance Group held a big party and fundraiser on the grounds of Our Lady Of Czestochowa Catholic Church to celebrate the 3rd anniversary of the group. The Wawel Polish Folk Dancers are a non-profit performing group dedicated to promoting Polish culture through song and dance. The group consists of high school, college, graduate students and adults.
The celebration was centered around a big bonfire which was the perfect setting for a cold, clear night. Long sticks were sharpened so attendees could cook their own kielbasa over the fire. Lots of good food was available including kielbasa and onions, bigos, pierogi and potatoes baked in the hot fire. There was also a wide array of delicious deserts for sale as well as drinks and mixers.
DJ Chris Piorkowski provided lots of music for the many dancers and singer Edward Winarski entertained the crowd. Souvenir photos were taken of participants posed with a big white bear and while wearing Wawel costumes and the Wawel Dance Group performed a couple of folk dances for the crowd.
A highlight of the evening for me was when Polish fiddler Brian Marshall celebrated his 23rd anniversary with his lovely bride Charisse by publicly asking her for another 23 years. It was fortunate for Brian that Charisse agreed and they sealed the deal with a special dance.
Dance Group Wawel’s celebration of our Polish heritage was a great evening of fun, food and fellowship among friends.
Below are a few photos of the fun and there is a slideshow of more photos on page 2. There are many more photos of the Dance Group Wawel at Evening Under The Stars
James Smock has always held an interest in his Polish ancestors and heritage. He is a native Houstonian with Polish roots in Bremond, Marlin and New Waverly, Texas.