Harvest Festival to be Held in Houtzdale
On Sunday, Aug. 18 the Saint Barbara Polish National Catholic Church (PNCC) Parish in Houtzdale will host its annual Dozynki, or Polish Harvest Festival. The Dozynki is an ancient celebration of an abundant harvest. It includes music, dancing, folk costumes, the procession of a wreath, made from the fruits of the harvest, to the local church to be blessed and traditional Polish food. (Photo from St. Barbara’s PNCC Facebook page)
HOUTZDALE – The Saint Barbara Polish National Catholic Church (PNCC) Parish in Houtzdale is getting ready for its annual Dozynki, or Polish Harvest Festival, on Sunday, Aug. 18.
“In Poland, the Dozynki is the traditional harvest celebration that occurs at the end of summer. It features music, dancing, folk costumes and the procession of a wreath, made from the fruits of the harvest, to the local church to be blessed,” according to information supplied by the parish.
During the festival at St. Barbara’s PNCC, Polish heritage will be celebrated as it has been annually for decades.
“The season of harvest is upon those who grow and enjoy the fruits, vegetables and crops of the land. With the bountiful harvest comes the opportunity to give thanks for the many blessings bestowed.
“It is also the time of the year that preparations are being made for an annual celebration in Houtzdale that is just that – a festival of thanksgiving for the year’s blessings and harvest.”
The Dozynki has been celebrated in Poland “as early as the 16th century,” according to the website, dozynki.com.au. Originally land owners used the festival as a reward to their workers.
The first wreaths were made from grain left on the field, rowan berries, nuts, flowers and ribbons. Some put live chickens or duck on it to “provide for future abundant crops and healthy offspring.”
After it was blessed, it was taken to a manor house where they would sing about their work and express their hopes for the success of future crops. It was then taken to a barn where it was kept until the next year.
Some of the ancient celebrations involved sacrifices to fertility gods such as leaving the last handful of uncut grain in the field after the harvest as a way to ensure the fertility of future crops. Later it would be “reaped in a very solemn manner” and given to “the most efficient of the women for processing.”
Eventually the Dozynki evolved from its pagan roots into a Christian festival as well.
At the Houtzdale Dozynki, traditional Polish food will be available for purchase, like St. Barbara’s famous pierogi, haluski, halupki/golumpki, kielbasa and sauerkraut, as well as American grill fare and soft drinks, according to the group.
As has been recent tradition, guests can enjoy each variety of Polish fare with a Polish Platter option. Other refreshments will be available at the beer pavilion.
There will also be games of chance and a basket raffle during the festival, as well as a variety of craft vendors showcasing their wares.
If you don’t have time to stop and eat, frozen Polish food for guests to take home with them will be available for sale in bulk inside the social hall while supplies last.
“The parishioners of St. Barbara’s PNCC are proud of their catholic faith and Polish heritage, and as they prepare for the upcoming event, invite all to come and celebrate the Dozynki and Polish traditions with them,” the information states.
The festival is on Aug. 18 from 12:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at the parish located at 76 Emery Ave., just off Route 153, south of Houtzdale.
Live music will be heard between 12:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m.
“Bring along family and friends, even a lawn chair and spend the afternoon in the parish park as joy and gratitude, as well as Polka music, fill the air.”
Guests are asked to please not bring pets or coolers onto the festival grounds.
As with any community event, it could not happen without volunteers and donations from local businesses.
The parish posted several shout-outs on their Facebook page to some of the Houtzdale companies sponsoring the festival, including Country Café, Inc.: “Your delicious dishes, friendship, dedication, and love for our community make all the difference.”
Birger A. Freeberg Funeral Home, Inc.: “Your dedication and service to our community are truly appreciated.”
Rusty’s Oil & Propane in Houtzdale: “Thanks for keeping our spirits high and our grills even higher!”
and Jacob George Ford Sales, Inc.: “Thanks for helping us steer this event towards a bountiful celebration!”
“The St. Barbara Parish Dozynki is a wonderful occasion to immerse yourself in Polish traditions, create lasting memories, and connect with neighbors and friends,” it states on their Facebook page.