“The discovery of a new dish confers more happiness on humanity than the discovery of a new star.” It’s hard to disagree with the sentiment published by Jean Anthelme Brillat-Savarin in The Physiology of Taste almost two centuries ago. Pierogi are undoubtedly one of the crowning dishes of Polish cuisine. They were made by our great-grandmothers, grandmothers and mothers, and now we make them ourselves. It could also be said that pierogi are going through a revival – and during the annual Pierogi Festival at the Main Market Square, restaurateurs continue to surprise us with new flavours and combinations, creating unique feasts for the senses. It’s no accident that the date of the festival (11-15 August) coincides with the Feast of Assumption of Mary and its tradition of blessing of herbs and making – you guessed it! – pierogi. The custom is also the inspiration for using herbs and spices in fillings.

The latest festival features the traditional competition for statuettes of King Casimir the Great (awarded by the public) and St Jacek with Pierogi (awarded by the professional jury), as well as celebrations with music. Tumbling Walls liven up the proceedings, Hanka Wójciak’s Ensemble brings fiery temperaments from the Tatra Mountains, and Balkanscream provides an exotic accent. The Main Market Square turns into a dance floor with the Lazy Swingers Band, the Galician Tadirindum and the folk Kopiénioki. It will be a feast for all the senses! (bf)