Cost: Free

Organizer: Whiting-Robertsdale Chamber of Commerce

What to expect: Pierogis, polka bands, a parade and more.

Why to go: Mr. Pierogi! This costumed character, along with his friends The Pieroguettes and Miss Paczki, makes the rounds of the fest and performs a number of musical spoofs, including the ingenious "We're Off to Eat Pierogis" ("We're Off to See the Wizard").

Additional info: There will also be plenty of family fun, a pierogi toss contest, a beer garden and an art show at this Eastern European festival. It's been featured in nearly every local Chicago news show as well as the uber-classy Saveur magazine.

Centerstage Reviewer: Ben Rubenstein