Michiganders are a mixed lot.

Among those that share the beauty of their heritage every year are members of the American Polish Century Club in Sterling Heights, who will be hosting the American Polish Festival and Craft Show June 20-22.

“We’re very excited to be hosting our 43rd annual Polish festival,” said Arnie Beller, festival chair and longtime club member in a news release. “We’ve had second and third generation families coming every year for all the music, fun, food, and crafts.”

It’s a fun event but also a lot of work.

To prepare for the three-day feast members of the club — following recipes that have been handed down from generation to generation — gather to prepare enough food for everyone. That includes more than 5,000 Golabki, a ton of city chicken, 750 pounds of potato pancakes and thousands of dinners featuring everyone’s favorite dish of kielbasa and pierogi.

“People can’t wait to try one of our famous traditional Polish dinners at the Polish Kitchen,” Beller said. “For those that like American foods, we have an American kitchen, as well.”

While not something you’re likely to see in Poland but considered traditional fare for this festival are the American Polish Century Club’s trademarked Polish nacho and egg rolls, which Beller claims to be the best anywhere.

Then there’s the Kielbassa Kafe, which will be serving up a few comfort food items.

The food is a big attraction.

But what also makes it a traditional Polish festival is the diverse mix of Polish bands, local music, folk dancers, arts and crafts and of course the annual pierogi eating contest. Who will be this year’s champ is everyone’s guess.

Admission to the festival is $5.

Those under age 17 are admitted free. There is also free parking and free shuttles available to the public at the Career Prep Center and Sterling Heights High School.

The events scheduled for the weekend festival include:

June 20 — TGIF Afterwork Party

• The festival opens at 4 and runs to 11 p.m.• The craft show runs from 4 to 9 p.m. and features vendors from all over the country.• Music and dancing begins at 5 p.m. and runs to 11 p.m.• Featured bands during the weekend will include Gerry Kaminski, Polka Network, Lenny Gomulka, Polish Muslims, Joey Vee Band and Chicago Push. Also part of the entertainment lineup is traditional Polish dancing performed by Wawel Dancers

June 21 — Hamtramck Reunion Day

• Festival hours: 10 a.m. to 11 p.m.• The craft show runs from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.• Music and dancing from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.

June 22 — P.R.C.U.A. Reunion Day

• Festival and craft show hours: 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.• Polka Mass in the hall at 12 p.m. with New Brass Express• Music and dancing from 12:30 to 7 p.m. by New Brass Express and Lenny Gomulka; along with Chicago Push• Pierogi eating contest sponsored by Srodek’s Pierogi and meats• Beverages served at the Polish Pub during the weekend festival will include ice cold Polish beers brewed specifically for the festival along with an extensive line of Polish and premium spirits.

“Many people come to the festival to shop at the crafter’s booth and then have a meal while the music plays,” Beller said.

Others come for the music and dancing, to meet up with old friends who are either Polish or just to enjoy the festive atmosphere created by the American Polish Century Club, which is committed in its support of Polonia and the Polish community in SE Michigan.

For more information: call Arnie Beller at 586-264-7990; email americanpilishfestival@tahoo.com or visit americanpolishfestival.com.