Polka music really strikes a chord with Wisconsinites.

In fact, it’s the state dance. The legislation was introduced at the request of a second-grade class from Lindbergh Elementary School in Madison in 1993. It was supported by a whole host of polka enthusiasts, including the Wisconsin Polka Boosters.

Accordionly, there are a host of funtime polka events coming soon. But, first, a brief history.

Polka’s origins come from a Bohemian woman named Anna Slezáková. In 1830, she was dancing unusually to a folk song called “Uncle Nimra Bought a White Horse.” It caught the attention of music teacher Josef Neruda who propagated it. Soon, it was the rage all over Europe and beyond, including Madison.

Want to shake a leg to some polka hits? Look no further.

Essen Haus, a German restaurant in downtown Madison, has live polka two nights a week. | Photo via Essen Haus | Essen Haus

Events

Polka Party: Celebrating 30 Years of Wisconsin’s State Dance | Thursday, April 18 | 5:30-8 p.m. | History Maker Space, 1 S. Pinckney St., Madison | $5-$15 | Local polka fan DJ Shotski will spin classic and contemporary polka hits at this Wisconsin Historical Society event, which will include live music from DB Polka Express, food, and historical exhibits.

DJ Shotski, aka Stacy Harbaugh, is one of Madison's biggest polka enthusiasts. | Photo via Stacy Harbaugh | Stacy Harbaugh

Mike Schneider | Thursday, May 2 + Sunday, May 26 | 4:30-7:30 p.m. | The Biergarten at Olbrich Park, 3527 Atwood Ave., Madison | Cost of purchase | Mike Schneider, Milwaukee-based six-time Polka Hall of Fame award-winner, roams the Midwest with his accordion strapped tight.