It is no secret that one of the reasons the Westside of Grand Rapids is often called the
best side is due to its inventory of neighborhood halls devoted to the many cultures that make up this part of the city. And
Pulaski Days rules supreme with a parade, partying and, of course, polka dancing.
This annual festivities honors the life of General Casimir Pulaski, an American Revolutionary War Hero, who, as a Polish immigrant to our country and even though he born into a noble family, sacrificed his life to ensure that liberty could be established in America.
If you are going to march with one of the many groups participating, thzen you need to check in at West Fulton and Lexington. Saturday’s parade begins at 11 a.m. and marches west toward the John Ball Park. Note: it might be best to avoid cutting through downtown Grand Rapids on your way to the parade this year since another parade of sorts is happening in the Center City this year: ArtPrize’s 2nd weekend.
If you are not up for a crazy wait in line this weekend for your Pulaski Day experience, then head to
The Point Bar where they will be offering table service for diners seeking a calm-ish experience.
The best part, in my opinion, is the chance to tour so many neighborhood halls that are open to the public all weekend, giving Westsiders a chance to showcase the delicious handmade food and raucous music of the Polish people often led by an accordion. Let’s polka!
Sure, it is pretty white, but I can speak from years of participating in its experience: this is a festival we can all be proud of what happens here. Pulaski Days welcomes all nationalities to participate in the promotion understanding, goodwill, and that through this festival we can be engaged to form new lasting friendships around this tradition as we seek to eliminate bigotry in our lives.
But if you “participate” too much, then please keep your handheld charged and your Uber app handy.
In addition to the traditional parade this year comes another chance to stretch those legs at a benefit for Gilda’s Club of West Michigan. The Westside-based organization launches its first Westside Walk with bright red shirts that will fit right in with the Pulaski Days festivities this year.
Organizers of the walk, which will benefit the beloved organization that produces LaughFest each March and supports emotional health year-round, see it as a chance for the community to connect with their mission to provide free emotional healthcare to children, adults, families, and friends on any kind of cancer journey or those grieving the death of someone in their life due to any cause.
Parking for Gilda’s 1.5 mile Westside Walk is at GRPS’ Union High School.To sign up for the Saturday, Oct. 3, noon walk, visit the event's
website here.
Admission: Varies by activity.