February 25, 2011

Pierogi Fest celebrates legacy of Casimir Pulaski

by Christi Mathis

CARBONDALE, Ill. -- Pierogi Fest at Southern Illinois University Carbondale is a two-part celebration of Revolutionary War hero Casimir Pulaski and the nation’s Polish heritage.

The Pierogi Workshop is set for 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. on Friday, March 4, at the Craft Shop in the lower level of the Student Center. You can learn how to made the popular Polish dumpling typically stuffed with meats, vegetables, cheeses and spices and eaten as a main dish or a side.

The cost is $10 and anyone age 12 and older is welcome to participate in the workshop. You must pre-register by March 4. To sign up, call 618/453-3636 or stop by the Craft Shop in the Student Center’s lower level. You can pay by major credit card, check, Debit Dawg or cash.

For more information, e-mail craftshp@siu.edu or call 618/453-3636.

The workshop falls on the birthday of Casimir Pulaski, born March 4, 1745, in Poland. He was a brigadier general and cavalry leader for the Continental Army in the Revolutionary War, succumbing in October 1779 to injuries suffered in a battle at Savannah, Ga.

Americans commemorate Pulaski’s birthday with a holiday on the first Monday each March and at SIUC, Old Main Restaurant at the Student Center is having a Casimir Pulaski Day Pierogi Fest buffet that day. Diners can see pierogies made and then enjoy an all-you-can-eat buffet featuring the stuffed pasta and assorted Polish cuisine. The $7.29 price includes the soup and salad bar. Drinks are extra.

Walk-ins are welcome but to assure a spot, call 618/453-1130 for reservations.

Both Pierogi Fest events are open to the University community and public.