Zoey Firestone, Junior Miss USPA, Shares Polish Heritage with Local Students

Our Junior Miss USPA recently had the opportunity to visit her former kindergarten classroom to share her love of Polish culture and the mission of the United States Polka Association. During her visit, she introduced the students to the USPA and explained how the organization helps preserve and promote Polish heritage through music, dance, and community involvement. She delighted the children by performing a Polka dance, reading a children's book, and answering questions about her role as Junior Miss USPA. The visit was a wonderful way to inspire young learners, celebrate cultural traditions, and encourage the next generation to take pride in their heritage.

Thank You for Attending the USPA Festival & Convention!

On behalf of the United States Polka Association, thank you to everyone who joined us for the 2026 USPA Festival & Convention. Your enthusiasm, support, and love of polka helped make this Memorial Day Weekend celebration a tremendous success.

Throughout the weekend, attendees enjoyed outstanding music, dancing, fellowship, and the opportunity to celebrate the rich traditions that continue to unite the polka community. It was a pleasure to welcome friends both old and new as we came together to share in another memorable convention and festival experience.

As we gathered to celebrate, we also reflected on the true meaning of Memorial Day by honoring the brave men and women who gave their lives in service to our country. Their sacrifice and dedication remain an enduring reminder of the freedoms we cherish and the opportunities we have to come together as a community.

We are grateful to our performers, volunteers, sponsors, vendors, award nominees, award recipients, and every attendee who helped make this year's event so special. Thank you for being part of an unforgettable weekend filled with music, dancing, laughter, and lasting memories.

We look forward to seeing you again next year. Until then, keep the music playing and polka on!

In Memory of “Lil' John” Nalevanko

The United States Polka Association mourns the loss of Lil John Nalevanko—musician, broadcaster, promoter, and true pioneer in the polka world.

A native of Crabtree, PA, John dedicated over seven decades to polka music. From drumming in his early teens to leading bands like The Music Tones and the ATM Band, his energetic performances and recordings brought joy to fans across the country.

John’s most enduring legacy may be his nearly five decades on the radio, where he hosted beloved polka programs on multiple Pennsylvania stations and iHeartRadio. His broadcasts featured music, community news, and exclusive interviews with polka legends, enriching generations of listeners. In recognition of his influence in broadcasting, John was inducted into the Broadcasters Hall of Fame in 2011, a testament to his role as one of the most respected and enduring voices in polka radio.

In 2023, John was honored with induction into the International Polka Association Hall of Fame (Pioneer Category), a testament to his tireless advocacy and influence. You can view his induction tribute here: IPA Hall of Fame – Lil John Nalevanko.

John was also known for promoting countless dances and events, supporting fellow musicians, and sharing his encyclopedic knowledge through liner notes and publications. His generosity and enthusiasm helped preserve and expand polka’s reach.

We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family and the many who were inspired by his music, voice, and spirit. His rhythm will live on in every polka played.

Please click here for details about John’s life, legacy, and service arrangements.

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Support the United States Polka Association!

If you love polka music and want to help us keep its joyful spirit alive, please consider making a donation. As a nonprofit organization, the United States Polka Association relies on generous supporters like you to continue promoting, preserving, and celebrating polka music across the nation. Every contribution makes a difference. If you feel moved to support our mission, please fill out the form below. Thank you for being part of the polka community!