You didn’t have to be of Polish descent to enjoy the Suffield Historical Society’s annual HolidayFest 2024. From the lively sound of polka to the last taste of a traditional treat, there was something for everyone to appreciate. This year, the King House was overflowing with folk and classical Polish art, music, and food. Much of the art was the work of the very talented and informative Susan Urban, who was on hand throughout the event to answer all kinds of questions.
The foyers, parlor, dining room, and kitchen of the King House displayed many examples of traditional folk art, such as paper cuttings (wycinanki), wood carvings, Polish pottery, egg dying (pisanki), and colorful regional costumes. Most of the artwork was Ms. Urban’s product. However, Carol Ann Stephenson, a member of the Polish Heritage Society, loaned many of the wood carvings and some of the wycinanki. A highlight of the exhibit was the four-foot hanging decoration in the front stairwell. The chandelier-like ornament of straw, called pająk (pronounced pi-onk), is based on the eight-legged spider associated with several Christmas legends and is associated with good luck. According to Eastern European legend, spiders spun a blanket for the Baby Jesus or decorated the manger with their webs. When the sun rose in the morning, the blanket or webs sparkled like gold and silver. The spider is considered a symbol of prosperity.
The kitchen’s exhibit of historical regional costumes associated with special occasions in Poland was very colorful. Ms. Urban had a detailed map of the locations with some two-dimensional figures dressed in various costumes. Finally, it was in the kitchen where guests with Polish ancestors had the potential for enjoyment beyond all the other visitors. Traditional Polish Christmas treats such as chrusztiki, pierniczki, makowiec, and kolaczki brought back fond memories of holiday preparation in Babcia’s kitchen, evoking a sense of nostalgia and connection.
The Polish Heritage Society appreciates the support of the Suffield Historical Society. Mark your calendars for the next event, Pącki Day, on Tuesday, March 4 at 10 a.m. at the Suffield Ambulance Center.