Celebrate Poland adds events, changes night of its fireworks

Staff report

POLAND

As Celebrate Poland enters its sixth year, a mix of new and old events is planned. The biggest change is the fireworks display moving to Saturday night, organizers say.

Celebrate Poland will be June 29 and 30, and nearly all of the events will take place on the grounds of Village Hall, 308 S. Main St. On both days, concession vendors, nonprofit fundraisers and children’s activities will be available.

New additions to Celebrate Poland’s Friday schedule include a Battle of the Bands and Corn Hole Tournament. The Battle of Bands pits eight musical groups against one another, competing for a prize of studio recording time. The bands will perform from 5 to 11:15 p.m. June 29, with a break at 7 p.m. for the Firemen’s Parade.

The Firemen’s Parade, organized by the Poland Firemen’s Association, will be led by grand marshal Michael Masucci, principal of Poland Union Elementary School.

“He has not only demonstrated that he is a great teacher and leader but also takes time to teach his kids ‘life-lessons,’” said John Whitinger, parade chairman, in a news release.

Day 2 of Celebrate Poland has added a Touch-a-Truck program that will cost $5 with proceeds benefiting the Rich Autism Center. Trucks on display include safety equipment, dune buggies and a Toys ‘R’ Us truck with a visit from the toy store’s giraffe mascot, Geoffrey.

Celebrate Poland will conclude with a fireworks display at dusk June 30.

The event’s vice president, Robert Lidle Jr., said the change was prompted by residents’ requests.

“This year we’ve really made an effort to not only listen to the people with the change of fireworks but add more events for both young and old, and we hope to do more in the future,” Lidle said.

Organizers said there is still time to get involved. All Celebrate Poland information, including registrations forms for the parade, Poland Idol, 5K race and craft show, is available online at CelebratePoland.org.