This past Saturday, Aug. 2, the Slovenian National Home in the St. Clair-Superior neighborhood held Zabava—a summer festival showcasing Slovenian culture, heritage, and history in Cleveland.

In Slovenian, Zabava means “Party,” and the third year of the free family-friendly event featured Slovenian food including pierogis; drink; polka music by musician Anthony Culkar and his band; a Slovenian Sausage Eating Contest; dancing; and vendors, along with a balinca (bocce ball) tournament and children’s activities.

Officials with the Slovenian Museum and Archives held an open house where attendees could learn about Slovenian culture in Cleveland. A Slovenian Kurent Costume was displayed—honoring the annual February Cleveland Kurentovanje Festival and Parade, the Slovenian Mardi Gras festival to scare away winter and welcome spring. The Kurent costume features a sheepskin coat, large bells, head with horns, decorated colorful strips, and a red tongue.