The Polish American Arts Association of Washington, D.C., Inc.

The Polish American Arts Association of Washington, D.C. is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting Polish culture and fostering meaningful cultural exchange between the United States and Poland. Since its founding in 1966, the organization has served the Washington, DC community through a comprehensive array of cultural and educational programs designed to celebrate Polish heritage and traditions.

The PAAA sponsors and cosponsors diverse programming throughout the year, including lectures, film screenings, concerts, literary events, and social gatherings that bring together cultural enthusiasts and community members. The organization also manages book sales, holiday craft workshops, and art exhibits that showcase Polish artistic traditions. A signature annual event is the traditional Wianki Festival of Wreaths, held each summer around St. John's Eve at the Lincoln Memorial, offering free public access to this historic Polish celebration. Additionally, the PAAA organizes the traditional Wigilia Christmas dinner each December, providing an authentic cultural experience for members and guests.

Beyond special events, the organization maintains an active scholarship program established in 1998 that provides educational support to Polish-American college students annually. The PAAA also participates in fundraising initiatives supporting various Polish and Polish-American causes. As an affiliate of the American Council for Polish Culture (ACPC), a national organization founded in 1948 with 33 affiliates across the United States, the PAAA contributes to the broader preservation of Polish cultural, literary, and folk traditions throughout America. Through its multifaceted approach to cultural programming and community engagement, the Polish American Arts Association continues to strengthen understanding and cooperation between Polish and American communities in the nation's capital.