15 Ways to Learn About Polish Culture

It's time to explore the world again! Remember last month's fun post about 14 ways to learn about Brazilian culture? The second post in this editorial series with au pair agency Cultural Care Au Pair focuses on Poland. Here are 15 ways to introduce your family to Polish culture. And as with the Brazil post, for my readers outside of Massachusetts, there are a number of recommendations below that can be enjoyed from anywhere!

*** VISIT ***

1. The Polish American Citizens Club of South Boston unites the Polish community in Boston and hosts events throughout the city.

2. The Polish Cultural Foundation in Milton promotes Polish culture in the Boston area and hosts a variety of events throughout the year.

3. Interested in exploring your roots? The Polish Genealogical Society of Massachusetts in Chicopee assists with Polish culture research efforts, family trees, and preserving historical Polish materials.

*** SING & DANCE ***

4. Learn about Polish song and dance via the Krakowiak Polish Dancers of Boston. They're next slated to perform in April at the New England Folk Festival.

5. Learn about Polish music from the comfort of your home via the Polina Music website.

    *** EAT ***

    6. Café Polonia in South Boston offers traditional Polish favorites such as pierogies, grilled kielbasa sandwiches, and potato pancakes.

    7. Want to roll up your sleeves and cook Polish fare at home? Try these pierogies!

    8. These gołąbki (cabbage rolls) are a bit more involved but will warm you up on a cold night.

    9. Head to the Baltic European Deli in Boston for Polish cold cuts, baked goods, cosmetics, newspapers, and more!

    10. In the heart of Boston's Polish Triangle is DJ's European Market and Deli, which offers deli items and baked goods.

    *** CRAFT ***

    11. Want to step up your egg decorating game this Easter? Check out how to make beautiful Polish pisanki.

    12.  Some straw and scrap paper is all you need to create a traditional Polish paper chandelier.

    *** READ ***

    13. The children's book Little Dog Lost is based on a true story in Poland.

    14. For older elementary school aged kids, The Secret of the Village Fool is a story of two boys and the lifesaving deed of a good neighbor.

    15. Picture book P is for Poland will take you on a tour of favorite Polish sites and cultural traditions.

    So fun, right? Enjoy exploring Poland and I'm excited to share more cultural educational material over the coming months. Also, totally related: Cultural Care Au Pair is hosting a free ice skating event in Quincy on February 28. Enjoy some time on the ice! If you're thinking about an au pair, you'll be able to meet some au pairs and host families at the event. 

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    Disclosure: This post reflects a sponsored editorial partnership with Cultural Care Au Pair. Cultural Care Au Pair is a leading provider of intercultural childcare and educational exchange. Since 1989, Cultural Care Au Pair has placed more than 90,000 au pairs in American homes. Hosting an au pair offers many benefits, one of which includes the opportunity for your family to learn about another country's culture.

    Image credits: 1) flag via Wikipedia; 2) compilation graphic by Christine Koh with images via linked sources above.