Bob Buzecan (accordion) and Brian Brazier of the Chardon Polka Band bring the music to the crowd as strolling musicians during the Simply Slavic Festival at the Youngstown Foundation Amphitheatre.
The Simply Slavic festival will celebrate its 15th anniversary this summer by expanding to a three-day schedule at the Youngstown Foundation Amphitheatre.
The event is scheduled for Friday, June 26, through Sunday, June 28. This year marks the first time organizers have added Sunday programming, which will focus on faith and family traditions.
“Expanding to three days gives us the opportunity to share even more music and dance,” said Catherine Katrenich, the festival entertainment chair. She said the addition of Sunday honors the spiritual traditions at the heart of Slavic communities.
Living Traditions Folk Ensemble performs during the Simply Slavic Festival at the Youngstown Foundation Amphitheatre, showcasing traditional Polish dance with vibrant costumes and floral wreaths.
The festival schedule includes:
Friday, June 26 (5 p.m. to 11 p.m.)
-
5:00 p.m.: Od Srca Adult Tamburitzans
-
5:45 p.m.: Parade of Flags, opening ceremony, and the tapping of Rodina beer
-
6:30 p.m.: Sycamore Folk Dancers
-
7:00 p.m.: Mon Valley Push
-
9:15 p.m.: No Funk No Justice
Saturday, June 27 (Noon to Midnight)
-
12:15 p.m.: Veseljaci
-
1:00 p.m.: Parade of Flags and blessing of the food
-
1:40 p.m.: Living Traditions Folk Ensemble
-
2:35 p.m.: St. Nicholas Russian Youth Dance Group
-
3:30 p.m.: Selo Croatian Ensemble
-
4:30 p.m.: ZAPS Ukrainian band
-
6:00 p.m.: Harmonia
-
8:30 p.m.: The Chardon Polka Band
-
10:30 p.m.: Vatra lighting ceremony and dance celebration
Sunday, June 28 (10:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.)
-
11:00 a.m.: Catholic mass with the Rex Taneri Orchestra
-
12:00 p.m.: Welcome ceremony, ecumenical prayer, and baking contest winners
-
1:00 p.m.: Mascot Showcase featuring Stan the Pierogi and YSU’s Pete and Penny
-
1:30 p.m.: Da Polka Bums
-
3:30 p.m.: St. Michael Serbian Folklore Society
-
4:00 p.m.: Mikey Dee
The festival charges admission and is open to the public. Detailed information and ticket prices are available on the organization’s website.