Yesterday, September 14th, at the Marian Olszewski Municipal Stadium in Karczew, we gathered for the seventh Super Festival of Cultures, which we organized in partnership with the Solano Group. Although the weather wasn't kind—torrential rain fell and then even thunder—the event attracted over 640 people. And it was they, the participants, who created a truly extraordinary atmosphere despite the inclement weather.
Emotions on the pitch
The football qualifiers began this morning. Teams from Indonesia, Kyrgyzstan, Colombia, Moldova, Nepal, Ukraine, and Poland competed. At 11:00 a.m., after the official opening and the singing of the national anthems, the main matches began. A mix of languages and emotions emanated from the stands. Fans supported their teams as if they were standing in the stadiums of their hometowns.
During the breaks between the games, groups from Nepal and Colombia danced – colorful costumes, energy, and smiles warmed up the audience even more than the sun, which we missed.
Poland and Ukraine met in the final of the football competition. The atmosphere was loud and lively. Ultimately, Poland took first place, Ukraine second, and Colombia third. The podium teams received trophies and medals, and all the players received gifts. After the matches, it was time to celebrate together.
Flavors that bring back home
SuperFestiwal isn't just about sports, though. The culinary scene is equally important. It was here that you could feel a little bit of home, especially for those who had come here from faraway places for work. The aromas of Colombian, Moldovan, Nepalese, Indonesian, Kyrgyz, and Ukrainian cuisine mingled with the aromas of grilled sausages, blood sausage, chicken drumsticks, and grilled vegetables. There was also pea soup and Ukrainian borscht from the field kitchen, home-made lard, pickled cucumbers, tomatoes, bread, fruit, and lemonade.
Everything disappeared in the blink of an eye. And no wonder, because the food was delicious. And at the stands, besides tasting delicious food, you could admire beautiful traditional costumes and talk to people about their countries. This is the heart of SuperFestival: creating a space where someone who misses their home can feel closer to it, while also sharing a piece of their culture with others.
Thanks to the large tent, everyone could sit down, take shelter from the rain, eat, and chat. Some people didn't mind the weather at all – they danced in the rain under the stars. The DJ provided the music and lights until the very last moment.
Little joys during the festival
This year's new feature was a raffle. Upon entry, each participant received a ticket, and during the meal, six lucky winners were drawn to receive vouchers for the Bistro Merano restaurant in Otwock. This small gesture brought much joy and smiles.
The rain didn't let up
Around 4:00 PM, only a few people remained at the stadium, and they soon departed for their homes. The rain sometimes eased, sometimes intensified, but once it started, it didn't let up. Although if the weather had been better, we probably would have stayed longer – everyone left feeling it was all worth it.
A festival for workers from around the world
We're organizing the Super Festival of Cultures primarily for international employees of LipCo Foods companies. They come to Poland for work, often leaving behind their families and loved ones. Thanks to the festival, they can experience the atmosphere of their own country, even if only for a moment – through the food, aromas, music, costumes, dances, and conversations that evoke memories. At the same time, the event provides everyone with an opportunity to learn about other cultures, exchange experiences, and bond together.
This was the seventh edition of SFK. We first met in Karczew in 2017, then the event grew until the pandemic halted its rhythm for two years. Since its return in 2022, each edition has demonstrated the need for such initiatives. Because while the weather may change, one thing remains constant: people's desire to be together, to share, and to experience things together.
Thank you!
This event wouldn't have been possible without the enormous commitment of volunteers, donors, and partners. So many people worked tirelessly to make everything a success: from the sports competitions, to the kitchen, to logistics and organization.
Thank you to everyone who joined us yesterday. It wouldn't have been possible without you. And we're already counting down the days until next year!
You can find some photos from SFK 2025 below, and for more materials, please visit our Facebook.
