Krakow, Poland, Holds 7th Annual Pierogi Festival in August

Move over Whiting, Ind., Krakow, Poland, just got into town. I thought only America would come up with something like Pierogi Fest (the Whiting, Ind., festival in its 15th year). But, no, Krakow has one, too.

The 7th annual Pierogi Festival in Krakow takes places Aug. 14-16 this year. And, as luck would have it, I'll be in this charming city then as part of a culinary trip to Poland. What a happy coincidence!

Thousands of pierogi aficionados converge on Krakow for this dumpling love fest, which debuted in 2003 as a two-day event, but which has grown to a three-day and sometimes five-day lollapalooza. In 2008, nearly 200,000 pierogi were consumed at this festival, aimed at promoting Old Polish cuisine.

In addition to public tasting booths, fairs and music, in my mind, the highlight would have to be the competitions among Krakow chefs who vie for the right to display the Casimir the Great (spectators’ votes), and the Saint Jack of the Dumplings (Jury votes) awards in their restaurant / shop windows for a year.

When I return to Krakow at the end of my trip, I'll be in time to catch a Folk Art Fair, a 30-year tradition featuring nearly 400 Polish craftsmen. I can't wait to tell you about that, too, so stay tuned!

I'll blog daily from Aug. 13-24 about my experiences and, when I get back, I'll share recipes from not only the Krakow Culinary Instute, but from women in small villages who have invited the tour into their homes to cook authentic Polish meals with them. Until August, check out these step-by-step instructions for homemade pierogi.

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