Originally published on 2023-10-07.
The year 2024 brings us another celebration of Pierogi Day, on Tuesday, October 8. This date, known in the international calendar as National Pierogi Day, is a holiday dedicated to one of the most recognizable dishes from Polish tables.
Pierogi – the Culinary Ambassador of Poland
Poland has been associated with great figures for years, such as our beloved Pope John Paul II, sports genius Robert Lewandowski, or piano master Fryderyk Chopin. However, our homeland does not limit its contributions to the fields of culture and sports. Polish pierogi, these small wonders made of dough filled with various fillings, have won the hearts of gourmets all over the world. Although their origin is sometimes attributed to China, they reached the Vistula River via Ruthenia (Kievan Rus), and over time they permanently entered the culinary tradition of our country. Pierogi were already popular on Polish tables in the 13th century, when their filling could consist of meat, cabbage, mushrooms, fruit or cottage cheese. Thanks to Polish emigrants, pierogi have found their place on plates in many corners of the globe.
Boiled pierogi (Photo: A. Woźniewicz)
A great example of the popularity of pierogi is the "Great Pierogi Race," a race of pierogi mascots that is a regular attraction at Pittsburgh Pirates baseball games. This humorous competition involves six mascot competitors and is organized by Mrs. T's Pierogies, a company founded by Ted Twardzik, a descendant of Polish immigrants. He played a key role in popularizing pierogi in the United States. Pierogi Festivals are held in other parts of the world, such as Whiting, Indiana, and there is even a statue of a pierogi proudly stuck on a fork in Glendon, Canada!
Celebrating Pierogi Around the World
Although pierogi are our national pride, their celebration is more popular abroad, especially in countries where the Polish diaspora has a strong influence, such as the United States. There, on October 8, people flock to Polish restaurants and shops to enjoy fresh pierogi. The holiday also encourages people to make pierogi themselves at home, which not only allows them to learn about the history of this dish, but also of our homeland. In the Middle Ages, pierogi were an important part of the diet of Polish peasants who worked the land, and the dough filled with them was a filling and caloric meal for them.
National Pierogi Day has also earned its place on social media, where the hashtag #NationalPierogiDay has become increasingly popular, especially around October 8.
The Polish Pierogi Tradition
In Poland, despite the fact that pierogi are very popular, the celebration of Pierogi Day itself is not yet so widespread. And that's a pity! There is nothing to stop you from celebrating this day in our country - even by visiting your favorite pierogi restaurant or organizing a family pierogi-making party at home. This is a great opportunity to have fun with your loved ones, from grandparents to grandchildren, and also to cultivate family ties. The older generation can share their tried and tested recipes, and the younger ones can gain new culinary skills.
For language lovers, it is also worth looking at the etymology of the word "pierogi", because this word has a long and interesting history.
Etymology of the Word
The word "pierogi" entered Polish in the 17th century, but even earlier, in the Proto-Slavic times, it functioned as "pir" meaning a feast. The name "pier" comes from the same source, meaning a ceremonial cake, such as kołocz. Adding the suffix "-og" to this, the name "pieróg" was created, which still delights our ears and palates today.
Pierogi Day, celebrated all over the world, is not only a celebration of culinary tradition, but also a tribute to Polish history and culture.
