Greater Poland dance party
On August 31, 2024, an extraordinary event took place close to the Wełna river, uniting lovers of active recreation and folk culture enthusiasts. A kayaking trip organized in the historic „Port Nowy Młyn” in cooperation with Folk Group Wielkopolanie attracted many residents of the area. Port Nowy Młyn, a former milling settlement with a history dating back to the 13th century, was the perfect background for this unique meeting.
The first part of the event included a 12-kilometer kayaking trip that led through picturesque nature reserves from Nowy Młyn to Jaracz. Participants had the opportunity to admire the beauty of nature, breathe fresh air and fully immerse themselves in the peaceful rhythm of nature.
After the trip, everyone gathered at Port Nowy Młyn, where local delicacies prepared in the spirit of traditional Greater Poland cuisine were waiting for them. Freshly baked bread, aromatic grilled dishes and delicacies baked over a bonfire appeared on the tables. The dishes served not only satisfied the appetite, but also set the mood for the later, more entertaining part of the evening.
The highlight of the event was the Greater Poland dance party, organized in cooperation with Folk Group Wielkopolanie and the irreplaceable Forge of Tradition band. To the sounds of traditional folk music performed by the Piotr i Paweł Band, Romuald Jędraszak and musicians Zuzanna Paprzycka-Powel and Patryk Powel, participants had the opportunity to move into the atmosphere of traditional folk games. The dancers of Wielkopolanie group, under the leadership of their director Piotr Kulka, led the participants through a series of traditional dances and games, such as Praczki, Szewc, Brzuchaty, Gołąbek, Chusteczkowy. Dupnik, Mietlorz, Nitka, Szmyt, Ceglorz and Weksel. Each of these games was not only just entertainment, but also an opportunity to learn and get to know the rich cultural heritage of the region.
During the dance, singing and a joyful atmosphere made everyone, regardless of age, willingly join in the fun. Performed songs such as Praczki, Hej bystra Woda, Jarzębina Czerwona, Lipka, Miała baba koguta, Orawa, Świniorz, W moim ogródeczku, W Zielonym Gaju, Zasiali Górale, Malorz, Czerwone Jagody, Co my zrobili, Powiadali ludzie or Co mi tam znaczy, touched the hearts of the participants, reminding them of the richness and diversity of Polish folk music.
This event was a unique opportunity to combine physical activity with learning about local culture and traditions. Participants could not only spend time actively outdoors, but also immerse themselves in an extraordinary atmosphere. The evening passed in an atmospheric setting, with delicious cuisine, dancing, singing and long conversations, leaving unforgettable memories.
AK
