As if you couldn’t tell from my last name, I’m always up for finding new events in Buffalo’s historic Polonia. The Dyngus Day parties, Pączki Day‎ and Wigilia dinners are just a few of the favorite happenings that this area has to offer. But St. Stan’s is looking to get a head start on the celebrating this holiday season. A Krupnik kick-off Polish happy hour will take place from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. this Friday night at the Monsignor Adamski Social Center, 289 Peckham Street in Buffalo.

So what exactly is Krupnik? A popular choice during the holidays in Poland and throughout Buffalo’s Polonia area, Krupnik is a traditional sweet alcoholic liqueur based on grain spirits and clove honey. Legend has it that krupnik was created by the Benedictine monks in the 1300s. Over the centuries, many versions have been concocted with some recipes passed down through generations. This sounds like the good stuff.

In addition to the free tasting, St. Stan’s asks guests to bring a Christmas ornament to help trim the St. Stanislaus Athletic Club’s Christmas tree. Prizes will be awarded to the “funniest”, “oldest” and “most authentically Polish” ornament.  While you’re there, there will be networking and reconnecting opportunities, as well as a chance to learn how to become a St. Stan’s AC member and about preservation plans for sites in and around the Broadway-Fillmore neighborhood.

This place has a little bit of history behind it too. In 1921, Rev. Alexander Pitass organized the St. Stan’s Athletic Club with the goal of bring together the Polish Catholic youth of the parish. The Club has called the second floor of the Monsignor Adamski Parish Social Center home since the summer of 1960 and young Polish-Americans are especially welcomed to meet others who have an interest in their heritage, language and to share Polish pride.

Cheers!