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…

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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…

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      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…

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WE NEED YOUR ASSISTANCE . . .   In preparation for our 50th Anniversary in 2018, we are looking for photos from IPA Events throughout the years.  Please help us by submitting your photos of your experiences at IPA events through the years.  Any help you can give us would be greatly appreciated. You can scan and email them to:  Christy-ipa@sbcglobal.net or mail a copy that will not be returned to:  IPA 50th Anniversary Photos, PO Box…

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Matt Wasielewski, musician, band leader, vocalist, song writer, composer, master or ceremonies, radio disc jockey, promoter and record distributor, started his polka career in 1957 when he formed his Polka Jets band. Seven years with the same musicians, his group was playing three to four jobs a week. Through the next few years, Matt added more musicians to the group which eventually developed into a six-piece band. Much in demand, the booking of some jobs…

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Photo Galleries of the 49th Annual International Polka Association Polka Festival and Convention Photos courtesy of Les Kapuscinski  * * * * * Click on the links below to view the photo gallery: Friday Welcome Party Photos Ballroom Photos Saturday: Music Awards / Hall of Fame Banquet & Pool Party Photos  Ballroom Photos Sunday: Pro Am Jam Photos Ballroom Photos

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Come out and join us for some Summer fun in the Sun! Sunday, August 6th, 2017  at the Hammond Mohawks Picnic Grove.  Here are all of the details!

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    It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of I.P.A. Co-Founder Leon Kozicki. Leon passed away at 2:30am on July 19th, 2017.  May his soul rest in peace. Services: Wake/Visitation:  Monday, July 24th:  Hallowell & James Funeral Home 1025 W 55th St Countryside, IL 3pm – 9pm cst. Funeral Services Tuesday, July 25th:  Prayer service at funeral home chapel:  9:15am  Mass of Christian Burial:  10am  St Cletus church 600 W…

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Calling all young polka music enthusiasts to Sign up Today!! The International Polka Association announces the latest edition of an exciting event at our 49th annual festival this Labor Day weekend at the Millennium Hotel – Buffalo, NY. Besides the great bands entertaining all weekend long, the IPA presents the Pro Am Jam on Sunday, September 3rd from 12:30 PM until 1:30 PM, which will perform many songs old and new!  This ‘jam session’ will…

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