What’s Dyngus Day without a parade? In a city that has such a high concentration of people who celebrate this Polish tradition, there are myriad activities that draw the crowds, but the family-friendly parade has become the symbol of the festivities to come. It is said that the 1.5 hour Dyngus Day Parade that kicks off the post-Lenten observance attracts tens of thousands of spectators each year.
With eight years under its belt, the parade manages to attract 100 entries, many of which march in traditional costumes and ride atop of grassroots floats. According to Dyngus Day officials there are a medley of awards that are issued each year, which help to rally enthusiasm for the parade marchers. Awards include Dyngus Day Capital of the World Award, Best Use of Red and White, Best Family Float or Group, Best Use of Pussy Willows, Best Musical Performance, and the Russ Pawlak “Unsung Hero” Award – the awards will be announced at a post-parade party on Friday, May 9, 2014, at 6:30pm at St. Stan’s AC. Parade. Judges include Samantha Maziarz-Christmann, Mary Kunz-Goldman, Tod Kniazuk and Ed Zawadzki.