Celebrate Poland changes schedule, adds events

For the first time, the Celebrate Poland planners have changed the schedule, moving the fireworks display to June 30 at 10 p.m.

It is a major change for those who enjoy the many activities at the festival, but the committee believed it was a necessary one.

“Over the years, we kept hearing the same bit of constructive criticism – people want the fireworks to be on Saturday. So we decided to give the people what they want…,” said Greg Morrison, Celebrate Poland president.

Celebrate Poland kicks off early Friday evening with a Battle of the Bands at Village hall and the Strawberry Festival at Poland Presbyterian Church, both at 5 p.m. Free cemetery tours at the church are at 6 p.m. and 8 p.m. The annual Fourth of July parade, featuring fire engines, trucks and floats from all over the area begins at 7 p.m. A new event will keep people busy after the parade. The cornhole tournament, sponsored by the PCBA, will begin with preliminary rounds Friday, and conclude on Saturday.

“We want to keep people in Poland Village for the evening, and then get them to come back the next day,” Morrison said.

On Saturday, activities are planned all day around Poland Village Hall, beginning at 9 a.m. and concluding with the fireworks at 10 p.m. The day begins with Chalk It Up, a chalk-drawing contest for all ages that is a favorite of festival patrons.

Other events happening at or near Poland Village Hall on Saturday include an Arts and Crafts Show from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. that will feature local artists, the second annual Poland 5K race at 10 a.m. in Baird Mitchell Field with a kids’ 400-meter race beginning at 9:50 a.m. and many more.

Another “Celebrate Poland” tradition and a new activity round out the schedule on Saturday. The Poland Idol Contest starts at noon, with registration at 10:30 a.m. It has been a highlight of the festival, featuring local vocalists in different age groups performing on stage.

Finally, Touch A Truck, a new event, benefiting The Rich Center for Autism, takes place between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Kids of all ages can inspect, explore and get behind the wheel of a variety of trucks, from fire engines and dump trucks to race cars and ambulances. This is free a free activity with any donations going to the Rich Center.

“We are especially proud that we have added a charitable cause to our two-day event with Touch a Truck helping out the Rich Center,” said Celebrate Poland Vice President Robert Lidle.

Later in the afternoon, the cornhole tournament will wrap up and a DJ will perform through the fireworks display at 10 p.m.

On both days, a variety of concessions will be available behind Poland Village Hall. Many local charities and non-profit organizations will be present will information and items for sale.