Pulaski Days: Celebrating Polish heritage | News

GRAND RAPIDS (WZZM) -- Pulaski Days are in full swing in West Michigan.  

For many, the food and festivities are a tradition that's engrained in who they are.

"I live right in the neighborhood-- I live right across from one of the halls, so Pulaski Days are very important to me," says Nathan Malyga. 

Many come down to the festival parade to reunite with extended family and others in the Polish community.

"We don't get together as much for the holidays, so this allows us to get together in a much louder and happier way," explains Rachelle Jakubowski. 

But who was the man behind the celebration? 

"[Casimir Pulaski] moved to America during the Revolutionary War and led the U.S. cavalry forces in the fight for freedom and independence," explains Malyga.

While the day is about Pulaski, many see it as an opportunity to simply celebrate their roots.