Johnstown PolkaFest 2025
When:
Friday, May 30th, 2025
–
Sunday, June 1st, 2025
Where:
NO PETS are allowed inside Peoples Natural Gas Park
Times & Cost:
Friday, May 30th – 4 PM – $5 Donation
Saturday, May 31st – 12:30 PM – $5 Donation
Sunday, June 1st – 11 AM – FREE
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PolkaFest was created in 1998 by “Polish Bill” Marano and his late wife Debbie, who pursued their dream of creating a world-class Polka festival in Johnstown. The Maranos’ knew that Johnstown’s ethnic heritage would make it the perfect setting for the festival. The Maranos’ partnered with the former Johnstown Business District Coalition to coordinate the festival in 1998 and 1999, which was held in multiple locations throughout downtown Johnstown.
Visit Johnstown, in coordination with the Maranos, assumed the operation and promotion of the festival in 2000. In 2001 the evening dances were moved to the Masonic Temple on Valley Pike, which was a perfect dancing venue with its large sprung wooden dance floor. The Masonic Temple remained the festival’s home until 2006 when the festival moved to Cambria City and was staged at multiple locations. In 2008, St. Mary’s became title sponsor and primary host site. PolkaFest features the country’s best bands, as well as local and regional favorites. The lineup regularly consists of bands and musicians who have been nominated for or who have won Grammy Awards. Johnstown’s PolkaFest is one of only a few to combine Polish and Slovenian styles at one festival, alternating sets, a format that has proven to be successful over 25 years. PolkaFest has also featured other Polka styles including German, Country, and even Rock, and continues to attract a younger audience.
PolkaFest’s daily admission is $5 Friday and Saturday, Sunday is Free. Minors accompanied by an adult are free.
PolkaFest is always the first weekend after Memorial Day. It attracts an estimated 10,000 people from multiple states and the region throughout the weekend, generating visitor spending throughout the community.
For advertising opportunities, contact Lindsay at 814-536-7993, ext. 103, or email LindsayA@visitjohnstownpa.com
For band contract and vendor information, contact Nicole Waligora at 814-536-7993, ext. 104, or email NicoleW@visitjohnstownpa.com.
Watch this highlight reel from last year's festival!
Polkafest Band Bios
Michael Costa & The Beat
Michael Costa & The Beat are from NJ with members also from NY and Ohio. Michael Costa, the leader of the group, was inducted into the Polka Music Hall of Fame in 2021. He has written over 40 original tunes over the years. He was the founding member and leader of the original Beat back in 1996 and continues to lead the band. With 7 recordings over the years, our 2021 release The Reason was awarded Album of the Year from IPA and USPA and Song of the Year for Let It Beat. The current members are Michael Costa, Steve Hayest, Sebastian Pucowski, Nik Yash, and Alex Yash. We are all thrilled to appear for the very first time at the Johnstown Polka Festival and to entertain and meet the wonderful polka fans in Johnstown, PA, and beyond.
The Zolkas
The Zolkas are an energetic Cleveland-style Slovenian Polka Band from Youngstown, OH. The band consists of Bob Zolka on accordion and Keyboard, RJ Zolka on Drums, Scott Grossen on electric guitar, Mike Sciortino on bass, and Vince Filippelli on tenor sax and clarinet. They provide a wide variety of music for all ages and events!! With an energetic sound and unforgettable crowd engagement, the Zolkas will supply a great time for everyone!
Buffalo Concertina All Stars
With its roots starting in 1989 as a “concertina club,” this hard-driving nationally touring polka band has evolved as one of the best. The 8 very talented musicians hail from three states and provide a band personality not typically seen these days. Their music has evolved into what we call “Honky fusion”
Don Wojtila Band
Don Wojtila Band has been recognized as one of Cleveland’s top polka and variety bands performing in Las Vegas, Branson, New York City, and on cruise ships. Formed in 1980 under the leadership of accordionist Don Wojtila, the band has recorded Goodtime Polkas, Country House Polka, and Polkas on Broadway.
