The Mackowski’s Visit to Poland – part 4. Feast of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary.

Friday, August 15 – Feast of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary

Matthew (Mateusz) picked us up at 9 am and around an hour later we were in the small town of Imielno. Most of the way was on a good four-lane divided highway, much like a US Interstate. Today was the town’s biggest event of the year (I’m making that conclusion), their village harvest festival (Dożynki Wiejskie) to give thanks for a good harvest and to honor the Virgin Mary. In previous contacts with Honorata, she encouraged us to get to the event early, but when we arrived a bit after 10, they were still setting up. We quickly found Honorata (or she found us – I was wearing my “Mackowski” hat) and there were hugs all around. Matthew did a great job translating.

The reason for being here early soon became clear, as the event would start with a Mass at 10:30 am. I expected perhaps they’d have a Mass on the stage in the field at the event grounds. No, we were all getting on hay wagons, pulled by farm tractors, and parade (with fire fighters – with sirens blaring, the mayor and other dignitaries) to Sts. Peter and Paul church a mile and a half up the road in Zagarow. Sure, why not.
The church was packed and it was a lovely service.

Of course then we had to get on the wagons and parade back. But not just back to the festival. We first had to parade all through the village to see the harvest decorations many of the households placed our in the front of their yards. Imielno was a small but prosperpus-looking community. There were many “new” house and most yards were well-maincured and trimmed with lawns, bushes, and flowers. It was hot and sunny and a bumpy ride, but we survived.

Once the tour of the village decorations was complete, we all got off the wagons, and headed towards some shade as the entertainment began. There were several childrens’ and adult groups singing and dancing traditional material. Later in the day, they had contemporary singers and comedians. Meanwhile, we were talked into taking a romp around the grounds on a horse-drawn wagon.

By then, more people were showing up. including more Mackowski relatives. I finally got to meet my actual blood second-cousin, Christopher (Honorata is his wife) and their children Anna (16) and Szymon (19). Later Lucasz’s son, Jakub, and his father, Zdzisław, arrived. They were in town for the wedding of Lucasz’ niece, Klaudia. While we were offered some fried chicken and fries, I was waiting for the sausage stand to be ready. Eventually I got some kielbasa and blood sausage. I remember having blood sausage as a kid after a funeral with my Grandpa Ben in a tavern where the reception was held. It’s an acquired taste.

My other true second cousin, Donata showed up. She was very sweet and friendly. Her husband, Franciszek, has some health issues and could not attend, but I met up with him later. We were introduced to the mayor of Zagorow and the town manager of Imielno. I think they are too small to have a mayor. After another beer and watching some of the entertainment, our guide took Donata home to Slupca, and then we went back to the hotel in Poznan. It was quite a day.