Introducing the Launch of the Virtual IPA Hall Of Fame

After months of planning, collaboration, and development, the International Polka Association is proud to officially launch the Virtual IPA Hall of Fame Museum! Working closely with our web development team, we have brought a long-standing vision to life — creating an online destination where fans, historians, and future generations can explore and celebrate the rich history of polka music. We invite you to explore the museum and celebrate the people and moments that made polka music…

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20th Annual IPA Hall of Fame Benefit Dance – March 14th and 15th, 2026

Location Polish American Citizens Center355 East StreetLudlow, MA 01056 Hotels Special Room Rates are available for the IPA weekend at: Holiday Inn Express321 Center St.Ludlow, MA413-589-9300Rates: 3/12/26 ($149), 3/13/26 & 3/14/26 ($165), 3/15/26 ($149) Saturday, March 14th Music by the Dynabrass7pm – 11pmAdmission $20 Sunday, March 15th Honoring the music of the Joe Zalewski and Toledo Polkamotion Reunion Featuring: Lenny Gomulka Eddie Forman Orchestra Dennis Polisky’s Maestro’s Men 2pm – 7pmAdmission: $20 Tickets For tickets,…

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The Passing of IPA Hall of Famer John “Stanky” Stankovic

With great sadness, we inform you of the passing of John “Stanky” Stankovic a 2019 Hall of Fame Inductee. We offer our deepest condolences and sympathies to his family, and all his polka friends and fans. John “Stanky” Stankovic, 89, of Hanover Section, Nanticoke, passed away early Thursday, December 25, 2025. Born at home on Phillip Street, in the Hanover Section of Nanticoke on May 4, 1936, he was a son of the late Joseph…

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57th Annual Chicago Festival of Bands and Warm Up Dance – Jan 17th and 18th, 2026

Join the International Polka Association in Celebrating January as National Polka Month with our 57th Annual Festival of Bands Weekend. Location Elements by the Odyssey Banquet Hall16235 S. LaGrange Road, Orland Park, IIllinoisLocated behind and connected to the Homewood Suites Hotel Lodging Homewood Suites Hotel16245 South Lagrange RoadOrland Park, IL 60467 Special Rate for the IPA is $159. The Homewood Suites Hotel is connected to Odyssey Banquet Hall. Warm-Up Dance – Saturday, January 17, 2026…

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The Passing of IPA Hall of Famer Thaddeus Okrzesik, Sr. (Ted O)

With great sadness, we inform you of the passing of Teddy Okrzesik, Sr., a 2010 Hall of Fame Inductee. We offer our deepest condolences and sympathies to his family, and all his polka friends and fans. The Born in Chicago on July 29, 1937, Ted was a devoted husband and father, and the proud and loving Dziadz of 17 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren. He was a dear friend to many. Ted is survived by his…

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The Passing of IPA Hall of Famer Richie Gomulka

With great sadness, we inform you of the passing of Richie Gomulka, a 2010 Hall of Fame Inductee. We offer our deepest condolences and sympathies to his family, and all his polka friends and fans. Richie was born on February 6, 1942, in Chicago, Illinois, to Ted and Mary (Owca) Gomulka, first-generation American-born parents. The oldest of four children, Richie shared a lifelong bond with his 2 sisters and younger brother. Richie leaves behind his…

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The Passing of IPA Hall of Famer Li’l John Nalevanko

With great sadness, we inform you of the passing of Li’l John Nalevanko, a 2023 Hall of Fame Inductee. We offer our deepest condolences and sympathies to his children, grandchildren, and all his polka friends and fans. John G. Nalevanko, Sr., 72, of Greensburg, died Monday, June 23, 2025, in Independence Health System Westmoreland Hospital, Greensburg.  He was born August 22, 1952, in Greensburg, a son of the late John J. and Catherine (Bohatch) Nalevanko.  Prior…

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57th Annual IPA Polka Festival and Convention

Join us now for the 57th Annual International Polka Association Festival and Convention from August 29th to August 31st, 2025. We also have a special welcome party once again featuring IPA Hall of Famer Alex Meixner on Thursday, August 28, 2025. Schedule Hotel Location and Reservations DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel – Pittsburgh Cranberry910 Sheraton DriveMars, PA 16046724-776-6900 The IPA has secured special rates and you can make your reservation by clicking on the button below:…

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2025 IPA Hall of Fame Selectees & 2024 Music Award Winners!

The IPA is proud to announce the results of the annual election conducted by the Academy of Electors and Trustees that determines the 2025 Hall of Fame selectees and winners of the 2024 Polka Music Awards. This year, the following candidates will be inducted into the IPA Polka Music Hall of Fame: Living Category: John Krawisz, Mark Janson Deceased Category: Bob Earl, Chester Pala Pioneer Category: Richard Sendra The 2024 IPA Polka Music Award Winners…

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