The pride of the Poles will descend on Pacific Beach from Oct. 12 to 14 for the 17th annual Polish Festival, a celebration of Polish culture and heritage at the St. Maximillian Kolbe Roman Catholic Polish Mission, located at 1735 Grand Ave. “The idea is to support the community and also share with San Diego people our Polish culture,” said Father Jerzy Frydrych. “Our Polish food is excellent, as well as the folk dances and performances, the music and the atmosphere of friendly Polish people living away from their home country.” Guests can enjoy performances by Polish folk dancers and musical entertainment by a variety of live bands and street musicians. As always, the mission will also host a mini-bazaar filled with traditional Polish souvenirs, jewelry, ornaments, apparel and art that will be on sale at the event. For those who come hungry, traditional fare like authentic pierogi, kielbasa or golabki will be available alongside a swig of Polish beer like Zywiec, Okocim or Warka. For visitors who hope to spend time in prayer or meditation, church leaders will also hold several guided tours with veneration of the relics, as well as Holy Mass during the festival. “Some people are coming from far away, so people will have an opportunity to see the church,” said Frydrych. “It’s nice to find out sometimes when people recall their roots. Sometimes they bring their very old Polish mother or grandmother to share the atmosphere … Just come join us and have a good time.” The weekend festival will take place on Friday, Oct. 12 from 5 to 11 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 13 from noon to 10 p.m. and Sunday, Oct. 14 from noon to 6 p.m. Admission to the event is $3 for those 16 years or older. While Friday evening is only open to those 21 years and older, the remainder of the festival is open to all ages. For more information, visit www.polishmission.org/festival.