53rd Polish Ball – A Celebration of Tradition and Elegance in London

On Saturday evening, the prestigious InterContinental London Park Lane hosted the 53rd edition of the Polish Ball. This extraordinary event, a tribute to Polish culture, tradition, and elegance, brought together distinguished guests, prominent figures, and art enthusiasts.

WYSPA TV had the honour of attending this grand evening and documenting unforgettable moments that will be recorded in history.

The official part of the event began with a welcome champagne reception and a commemorative photograph, after which guests took their seats at elegantly decorated tables. This year, the Polish Ball was graced by the presence of His Royal Highness, The Duke of Kent and the Polish Ambassador to the United Kingdom, Anna Sochańska, emphasizing the event's prestige. Their attendance symbolized the harmonious connection between Polish tradition and international recognition.

The guests' grand entrance into the ballroom was accompanied by a stunning performance of the Polonaise dance by the "Wiwaty" and "Żywiec" ensembles. Their performance mesmerized the audience, capturing the essence of Polish folklore in its most dignified form. After the official opening of the Ball by Dagmara Kowalska and Adam Leja, two ceremonial toasts were raised, followed by the singing of the British National Anthem in honour of the King and the Polish National Anthem in tribute to the President of Poland.

One of the most significant moments of the evening was the charity auction, with proceeds donated to the Hospice of Father Eugeniusz Dutkiewicz in Gdańsk. The auction exceeded expectations – a portrait session by Barbara Kaczmarowska Hamilton was sold for an impressive £15,000, a bespoke tailoring voucher by Kuba Bonecki fetched £1,800, and a Polish national football team jersey signed by the players was auctioned for £3,300. This heartwarming display of generosity and commitment highlighted the guests' dedication to supporting those in need.

Following the official speeches and a gala dinner, the stage was given to the artists. The "Wiwaty" ensemble once again captivated the audience with their performances, and the dance floor came alive to the music of the Konfetti Band, marking the beginning of the traditional first waltz. A particularly moving artistic highlight of the evening was the performance by soprano Aleksandra Szmyd, whose operatic aria enchanted the audience.

As tradition dictates, guests were treated to Polish pączki (traditional doughnuts) at midnight, providing a sweet conclusion to this magical night. The evening culminated in a collective singing of the Polish National Anthem, adding a profoundly emotional touch to the event’s finale.

The organization of such a prestigious event requires immense dedication and passion, and special recognition is due to the Polish Ball Committee, led by Marzena Konarzewska. Her professionalism, attention to detail, and exceptional devotion to Polish traditions made the 53rd Polish Ball an unforgettable experience.

WYSPA TV enjoyed participating in this grand celebration and will soon release a full video coverage, allowing audiences to relive these remarkable moments.

The 53rd Polish Ball event unites generations, honours tradition, and promotes Polish culture globally.

Editor Maria Anna Furman