2018 I.P.A. Summer Picnic

Get ready for some outdoor Polka Fun!  Please join the International Polka Association as we continue our celebration of 50 years of promoting polka music by attending our Annual Summer Picnic.  Saturday, August 4th:  Hammond Mohawks picnic grove,  Hammond, IN.  Here are all of the details . . .    

Continue reading

Passing of I.P.A. Hall of Famer Chet Schafer

It is with much sadness that we report the passing of IPA Hall of Famer, Chet Schafer. Chet was inducted into the International Polka Association’s Hall of Fame in 1976, and played a vital role in bringing polka music entertainment to the masses in the Chicagoland area and beyond. Polka Radio personality, Music producer, Singer, Dancer, were just a few of the accolades associated with Mr. Schafer. His great wit, charm and personality will be…

Continue reading

2017 Song of the Year Submissions

The International Polka Association’s Hall of Fame Committee would like to share the “Song of the Year” candidates for 2017. The “Song of the Year” award will be presented at the 50th Annual I.P.A. Festival and Convention in Buffalo, NY. Click on the links below to listen . . .       International Style   Polish Style    Please Note:  The Songs submitted were from the artists or recording companies and the IPA is not responsible…

Continue reading

2018 I.P.A. January Festival of Bands Weekend – Chicago

Mark your calendars to join your polka friends and family for a fun-filled weekend on January 13th and 14th 2018 for some foot tapping, hand clapping, polka entertainment to take the winter chills away! Please join us, as we begin our year long 50th anniversary celebrations! Saturday, January 13th, 2018:  I.P.A. Warm Up Dance Featuring Lenny Gomulka and his Chicago Push Polonia Banquets.  4604 S Archer Ave. Chicago, IL Doors Open at 5pm Music 6pm…

Continue reading

Passing of I.P.A. Director Edward F. Szela

It is with much sadness that we report the passing of IPA Director, Ed Szela. Ed had been a director since 1999 and one of the co-organizers of the annual IPA Hall of Fame benefit dance in Ludlow, Massachusetts. We extend our deepest sympathies the entire Szela family. May he rest in peace. ***** Note:  On January 19th, 2018 Jeanne Szela also passed.  Ed and Jeanne were definitely and match made in heaven and will…

Continue reading

2018 Joe Jozwiak Award Winner – Norb Ciesla

      Many years ago, the late Joseph Jozwiak, a director of the IPA, made a suggestion that an award be bestowed upon an individual or group of Individuals who have made a significant contribution or endeavor to enhance the promotion of polka music. After much discussion, the International Polka Association (IPA) voted to honor those worthy individuals with the establishment of the Special Achievement Award. To pay tribute to Joe Jozwiak, following his…

Continue reading