Some of the greatest attractions are the historic downtown itself. Located just 20 minutes south of the Chicago Loop, the wild and irreverent American Trust International Polka Parade on Friday evening (7:00) with its Babushka Brigade, Precision Lawn Mower Drill Team, and the Pierogi-Pups. Reigning over the festivities is Mr. Pierogi and his singing, dancing Pieroguettes.

Some of the main attractions are International dancers, a game of Eastern Bloc Jeopardy or Bingo, or the Pierogi Eating and Pierogi Toss contests. Special events this year include:

Saturday

2:00 Bushas signing the new Bushas of the Brigade 2008 Calendar

3:00 See World’s Largest Pierogi Being Made – Region Signs

4:30 Premiere of “It’s Happiness- a Polka Documentary” $5.00

The movie documents polka music and the people who love, it has received awards at such film festivals as “Winner-Best Documentary” at the Bluegrass Independent Film Festival and also at the Oxford International Film Festival. It also won the Audience choice award at the Humboldt Park Film Festival. The Director of the movie, Craig DiBiase will fly from New York just for this occasion. The movie is graciously sponsored by the City of Whiting and in cooperation with the School City, the movie will be shown on Saturday, July 28th at 4:30 at the Whiting High School Auditorium at 1800 New York Avenue with a question and answer discussion with the director.

In addition to all the benefits, there is no admission charge. The doors open Fri. & Sat. 11am to 10pm and Sunday 11am to 5pm. For more information please visit www.pierogifest.net or call the Whiting Chamber of Commerce toll free at 1-877-659-0292.