The Kielbasa Capital Of Massachusetts Is One Of The Most Delicious Small Towns You’ll Ever Visit

When I was growing up, kielbasa was not a food that my family served regularly. Hot dogs and sausages were more the norm for us. However, that all changed years later when I married into a Polish family and was introduced to a whole new menu of delicious dishes. Kielbasa is now a staple in our home as well as a food that we often order when we go out to eat. Not all small towns in Massachusetts feature this specialty, but Chicopee does!

When my family travels to the western part of the state, we know that a kielbasa stop in the city of Chicopee is always a must. Otherwise known as "the kielbasa capital of Massachusetts," Chicopee is filled with restaurants, delis, and take-out establishments that serve wonderful kielbasa and other amazing Polish cuisine.

Chicopee is the second-largest city in Western, Massachusetts and has a population of just over 55,000 people. The city has one of the highest Polish populations in the state. If you've been wondering about the best places to find kielbasa in Massachusetts, you're in the right place!

Kielbasa is such a popular local food that the people of Chicopee used to have a special day dedicated to celebrating this delicious meat. On Memorial Day weekends, the annual World’s Kielbasa Festival would feature games, rides, and traditional Polish cuisine.

The highlight of the Kielbasa Festival was getting to view the world’s largest kielbasa, which was made by Chicopee Provision Co. Back in 1994, the kielbasa weighed in at 600 pounds. Although the Kielbasa Festival has not taken place for several years, many residents are holding out hope that it will be resurrected in future years.

As for Chicopee Provision Co., they continue to produce delicious Blue Seal kielbasa, hot dogs, and sausage. Their quality products can be found in select stores and can also be purchased online.

You can also have your kielbasa shipped to you as part of a pierogi meal through local company, Millie's Pierogis.

If you are in immediate need of kielbasa while visiting Chicopee, I suggest stopping in Bernat’s Polish Deli and Bakery. This long-time family-run deli is known for its kielbasa, pierogies, and soups.

They also make fantastic sandwiches and baked goods!

Or maybe you want a festive spot to sit down and enjoy some kielbasa with a cold pint of beer. Munich Haus is the place to go! This popular German restaurant and biergarten features traditional German and Polish foods.

If you wish to learn more about the Polish culture in Chicopee and New England, I suggest that you pay a visit to The Polish Center of Discovery and Learning. The museum features exhibits centered around art, immigration, and military service. They also sponsor local workshops, concerts, and lectures.

Have we inspired you to travel to this one-of-a-kind town? What are you most looking forward to on your trip? If you have visited Chicopee, Mass before, please tell us about your favorite place to purchase kielbasa. We always enjoy hearing your recommendations!

For more amazing Polish food in other areas of Massachusetts, be sure to visit Patti's Pierogis in Fall River and Janik's Pierogi Cafe in Westfield. There are so many fun places to explore while you're in town, so you might want to stay overnight to make sure you can get to as many activities and interesting destinations as possible. If you are looking for a great place to stay in the area, consider the Hampton Inn Chicopee/Springfield.