How many pop/rock/other famous musicians do you see with a smile like that on their faces these days? Either they look depressed or angry, or they take themselves far too seriously to smile.
In any case, there seems to be some joy in the polka party.
This kind of joy in the simple things in life is something I saw and experienced much more in Mexico than here. In Mexico, there is a greater tendency to find joy in whatever you have in life, even if it's little, and whatever situation you're in. Could it be that more limited economic opportunities and a lesser degree of stability have made everything seem a more fleeting, thus making everyone happier for what they have? Or is it that their mentality on life has been shaped by a different set of values, different religious background, etc.?
In any case, although Walter Ostanek is still alive and well (and living in St. Catherine's) the days of the polka fest seem to be past their prime. In the past, the unfinished sanctuary of the church I currently attend was used as a community dance hall for about 3 decades (until they had the money to finish it and use it as a sanctuary.) There are no community dances any more. I think there's only one at New Years, and it's only for those of age; this strips the sense of community out of such events. The interest-focused "communities" we like to talk about are really not communities at all. A true community includes people of all ages and tastes. A true community, like a family, simply finds joy in being with each other.
Perhaps Canada's past was a little more festive and joyous as well? Who knows. In Canada, there is a lot of focus on pleasure, but little joy. It most certainly exists (see A Mexican Chistmas Celebration (Posada) in Ontario's Countryside) but it seems the exception rather than the rule.
