SHENANDOAH, SCHUYLKILL COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU) — Calling all kielbasy lovers, a festival this weekend in Schuylkill County will satisfy your cravings for the Polish dish and support the community.
You never run out of kielbasy at Kowalonek’s in Shenandoah.
The shop is always stocked, especially ahead of a big event, like Saturday’s Kielbasi Festival and Heritage Day.
“We’ve just become really proud of it. Proud for our town, proud for our community, definitely proud that it’s a combined event now and just to celebrate everyone’s ethnicity, as well as the town,” said Jessica Kowalonek, fourth generation/manager at Kowalonek's Kielbasy Shop.
Starting at 10 a.m., hundreds of vendors and local fire departments are set to participate.
Charcuterie boxes are on the menu for this weekend, including other items you can’t typically order at the century-old business.
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“Has to be kielbasy. We’ll do a pierogi casserole, cheesesteaks, kielbasy melts,” explained Luke Kowalonek, fourth generation/manager at Kowalonek's Kielbasy Shop.
Multiple generations are playing their part in the festival, like the fifth generation, Violet and Eric.
“My favorite part is grilling cheesesteaks, and I love the whole day pretty much,” said Eric Hannis, fifth generation at Kowalonek's Kielbasy Shop.
Tons of hot dogs are being prepped and stuffed behind the scenes. This event helps get families ready for Memorial Day, just around the corner.
“It’s really great for our business, so people come, buy stuff, they’re able to make trays for themselves, grab some products, grilling items, and stock up for the weekend ahead,” said Jessica.
More traditions for this family to share with the community.
“We’ve been doing it for over ten years. It’s great for the community, great for the town,” said Luke.
Rain or shine, the Kielbasi Festival and Heritage Day runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on North Main Street in Shenandoah on Saturday, May 17.
