Editor's Note: These are courtesy translations of local news provided by the U.S. Army Garrison Poland Public Affairs team for the benefit the military community stationed here. Views or opinions are not endorsed by USAG Poland or the U.S. Army.
The Magic of Christmas Comes to Life Across Poznań
Last weekend, the Poznań International Fair was ablaze with holiday cheer. The official opening of the Christmas market was scheduled for last Saturday. Less than a week later – on Friday, November 21st – the Poznań Bethlehem will begin at Wolności Square, and a day later, on Saturday, at the Old Market Square.
"We have three locations in Poznań where we'll be preparing for Christmas. It's worth visiting these places with your family to spend this time together and have a joyful time. As in previous years, there are plenty of attractions for residents and tourists, including a rich cultural program. At the fairs, you can buy original gifts and go ice skating – there will be two ice rinks for those interested," encourages Jędrzej Solarski, Deputy Mayor of Poznań.
Christmas Market at Poznań International Fair Opens with New Attractions
A Ferris wheel offering a view of Poznań illuminated by the sun, an ice rink, and a new addition – a spectacular 40-meter space booster – all this and much more awaits visitors to the Poznań International Fair.
"This is our fourth year hosting a Christmas market on our grounds. New attractions are added every year. Guests will have access to carousels, a water wheel offering panoramic views of the city, and, starting November 22nd, an ice rink. We also encourage you to participate in the accompanying events taking place at MTP, such as the Gift Festival or visiting the Great Elf Factory," says Filip Bittner, Vice President of the Management Board of Grupa MTP.
The MTP fair will be open every day except Mondays (from Tuesday to Thursday from 3:00 PM to 9:00 PM, on Saturdays from 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM, and on Sundays from 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM). In addition to a range of exhibitors, visitors will also find a food court with mulled wine, hot chocolate, winter tea, a wide selection of grilled dishes, and holiday treats.
This year's attractions at MTP include a traditional Ferris wheel, an ice rink, and children's carousels. Guests will be able to feel like a real Santa Claus by sitting in his chair or taking a sleigh ride in a special simulator. The iconic Marcin the Moose will also return, as always entertaining visitors with Poznań dialect. This year, there will also be a new attraction – a spectacular 40-meter space booster, or "hammer" carousel, for adrenaline junkies.
The entire fairgrounds will be decorated with thousands of lights and special light installations, perfect for taking unforgettable holiday photos. There will also be a stage where concerts will take place on weekends. Audiences will be able to enjoy both Christmas melodies and performances by popular stars.
The strategic partner of the fair at MTP is Enea, which this year has also prepared a special zone with Christmas workshops.
10th Poznań Bethlehem Celebration Begins at Wolności and Old Market Squares
Traditionally, you can also experience the festive atmosphere at Wolności Square (from November 21st) and the Old Market Square (from November 22nd). The Poznań Bethlehem will run in these locations until January 6, 2026.
"The Poznań Bethlehem is not just a fair. It's a space where we connect. A place where magic becomes reality, and everyone—regardless of age—can be part of this tradition. I invite you to the grand opening of the Poznań Bethlehem at Wolności Square. On Saturday, November 21st, at 7:00 PM, a unique show will take place. Over 100 Poznań artists will dance in an etude of "The Nutcracker," encourages Anna Dorna, representative of Becker Eventservice, the organizer of the Poznań Bethlehem at Wolności Square and the Old Market Square.
This year's edition is special because it's an anniversary event. The Poznań Bethlehem at Wolności Square will be held for the 10th time this year. Over 50 exhibitors from across Europe, including Lithuania, Italy, Germany, Spain, Hungary, France, the Netherlands, and various parts of Poland, will be present in the heart of the city. There, you'll be able to discover not only new flavors but also purchase original Christmas decorations and gifts, as well as a variety of handicrafts (there will be even more exhibitors offering handicrafts than last year). This year, goats will greet visitors entering the square. Collectors of Bethlehem glassware will have two designs to choose from this year – one traditional and the other an anniversary edition.
The festive atmosphere will also be felt thanks to the reindeer carousel and the Venetian carousel, which will transport lovers of tradition to times gone by. As is tradition, a water wheel has also been installed in Wolności Square, offering views of the city center from a height of 33 meters. A new addition will be the Christmas roller coaster.
Just like last year, the Old Market Square will feature an ice rink, even larger than before (over 400 square meters), as well as a 19th-century Venetian carousel and stalls selling handicrafts and treats. A ceremonial lighting of the city's Christmas tree is planned for Saturday, December 6th, at 5:00 PM.
The Poznań Ice Festival will also take place in the Old Market Square. The event will last three days. Poznań residents and visitors will have the opportunity to witness the ice sculptors' competition during the weekend of December 12th-14th.
The Poznań Bethlehem at Wolności Square and the Old Market Square also features a rich artistic program spanning 25 days, featuring Christmas performances, concerts, workshops, and competitions. The event plan is being developed in collaboration with non-governmental organizations, so the program includes numerous activities to support those in need.
The artistic program was designed with various social groups in mind. Seniors have their own day in the schedule of attractions, with special discounts on Mondays, along with dedicated cultural offerings. On Wednesdays, families can spend time together, participating in events designed for children and their caregivers. A wide range of attractions awaits all participants, including performances, workshops, and exciting promotional offers. Thursdays are dedicated to students, with a Christmas Silent Disco taking place on these days. Students will also enjoy special offers.
As was the case last year, one of the days (this time on December 1st) will be dedicated to foster families, with a variety of activities awaiting them. Those interested will also have the opportunity to learn how to support children in family crisis, how to become a foster parent, and what kind of support the city offers. Santa Claus from Lapland will also be visiting.
"There will be many more such events. On Saturday, December 13th, a Coca-Cola truck will visit Poznań. A few days later, on December 18th, we will join students from all over Europe in singing "Silent Night" in various languages. To mark the 107th anniversary of the Greater Poland Uprising, an insurgent town will be set up in Wolności Square on December 27th. There will also be a pre-New Year's Eve celebration for children and families, and on January 2nd, a Mezo New Year's concert," explains Anna Dorna.
Detailed information about the fairs can be found on the websites of Bethlehem Poznański and the Christmas Fair at Targi .
Poznań Named “City of the Year” at CEE Investment Awards for Second Year in a Row
Poznań has once again been recognized as a leading investment destination in Poland and Europe. The capital of Greater Poland won the "City of the Year" title at the 15th CEE Investment Awards, organized by EuropaProperty. This is the second consecutive year it has received this prestigious distinction.
The "City of the Year" award goes to local governments that effectively build Poland's investment brand and successfully attract new ventures. In this year's edition, Poznań competed with Bydgoszcz, Katowice, Łódź, and Vilnius. The capital of Greater Poland previously won the title in 2021 and 2024.
"Poznań has once again confirmed its position as an investment leader in Poland. This distinction from such a prestigious group demonstrates that our efforts are bearing fruit. We consistently invest in the city's development, and this is appreciated," emphasizes Jacek Jaśkowiak, Mayor of Poznań.
The award decision is made by an independent jury composed of experts in the real estate, finance, and investment sectors. The CEE Investment Awards is one of the most important real estate events in Central and Eastern Europe, bringing together representatives of the public and private sectors, facilitating knowledge exchange and establishing business contacts.
"Retaining the title of 'City of the Year' is a great honor for us. Poznań is developing dynamically, and our investment portfolio includes a number of prestigious properties. Despite global economic challenges, the city remains stable and attractive to modern businesses," says Katja Lożina, Director of the Investor Relations Department at Poznań City Hall.
The forum and gala are organized by EuropaProperty, a leading publisher and organizer of industry events in Central, Eastern, and Southeastern Europe. Each year, the forum attracts investors, developers, real estate experts, and city representatives, providing an excellent opportunity to promote their investment offerings and build relationships with business partners.
Winning the "City of the Year" title is another distinction for Poznań this year in the areas of investment and investor services. In September, the capital of Greater Poland also received the Prime Property Prize 2025 in the "Investor-Friendly City" category at the 15th anniversary edition of the Property Forum in Warsaw.
Historic Tram Parade to Roll Through Poznań on Nov. 23
Celebrations are underway to mark the 145th anniversary of public transport in Poznań. To mark the anniversary and the feast day of St. Catherine, the patron saint of tram drivers and carriers, a parade of historic and modern trams will take place on November 23rd. Afterward, visitors can visit the former depot on Madalińskiego Street, where a demonstration of the rolling stock is planned.
The year 1880 was a turning point in the history of Poznań's public transport. The Poznań Horse Railway Society was established, gaining the rights to build and operate trams in Poznań. On July 31st, the first regular tram line—then horse-drawn—opened, running from the Railway Station to the Old Market Square. The new mode of transport quickly found supporters among the residents of the capital of Greater Poland, and subsequent lines were added. Thus, Poznań's public transport was born. This year marks the 145th anniversary of this event, and also the 100th anniversary of the launch of bus service in the capital of Greater Poland.
MPK Poznań hasn't forgotten its past. Together with the Rail Vehicle Enthusiasts' Club, combining anniversary celebrations with the traditional Katarzynka celebration, it is organizing a tram parade on Sunday, November 23rd, and opening the gates of the former depot on Madalińskiego Street.
Parade and presentation of the rolling stock at Madalina
The depot will open to visitors at 10:00 a.m. Trams are scheduled to depart at 11:00 a.m., and later, until 4:00 p.m., visitors will be able to view historical and contemporary rolling stock (including those taking part in the parade) on Madalińskiego Street, as well as visit the stands of MPK Poznań and the Rail Vehicle Enthusiasts' Club.
The parade will begin at 11:00 a.m. Trams (historic and modern) will depart from the depot and travel along the following route:
Madaliński Depot - Hetmańska - Głogowska - Dworcowy Bridge - Towarowa - Święty Marcin - Marcinkowskiego - Podgórna - Strzelecka - AWF - Queen Jadwiga - Górna Wilda - 28 June 1956 - Commemorative - Madaliński Depot.
For safety reasons, after the parade, trams will enter the depot without passengers (who will disembark at the Pamiątkowa stop). Once the vehicles are parked, entry to the Madalina area will be permitted again.
Participation in the event is free. Space on trams during the parade is limited.
On the same day, at 3:00 PM, a solemn Mass will be held at the Church of Our Lady of Sorrows at 97 Głogowska Street for the employees of the Poznań public transport operator and their families. The Poznań City Orchestra at MPK Poznań will perform after the Mass.
The commemorative PEKA card, commemorating the 145th anniversary of public transport in Poznań, is still available for sale. It's not only a practical ticketing device, but also a symbol of tradition and continuity, and a souvenir that reminds us of the important role public transport plays in the city's daily life. Cards can be purchased at all ZTM Customer Service Points in Poznań .
Lumina Light Park Illuminates Poznań With New Theme and Over 200 Displays
From October 24, 2025, to March 1, 2025, Lumina Park will reopen. Temporary traffic management will be in effect on weekends during the park's opening hours. The park is also accessible by public transportation.
The largest illumination park in the Wielkopolska region is once again welcoming visitors! This year, Lumina Park Poznań boasts over 200 light installations, 12 themed zones, and a brand new light story along a 1.5-kilometer route in the Dendrological Garden.
This year, the creators of Lumina Park in Poznań, located within the Dendrological Garden of the University of Life Sciences, invite visitors to discover a completely new theme: "The History of Good Energy." Thanks to over 200 light installations, park visitors will feel as if they are traveling through time—from the birth of the first light in the stars, through wind and electricity, to the energy of the future. The 1.5-kilometer route leads through 12 diverse themed zones, which uniquely present eleven forms of energy that have evolved throughout history.
There's no shortage of positive energy at Lumina Park Poznań – the glow of the installations isn't everything. Music will also fill the entire park. Each of the 12 zones into which the area has been divided is enriched with sound effects that make the place even more fascinating. The specially selected audio track includes not only ambient music but also pieces inspired by a given era.
The only entrance to Lumina Park is located at 2 Warmińska Street (from the square next to the speedway stadium). The nearest stops ("Wojska Polskiego" and "Golęcin") are served by buses no. 160, 164, 170, 182, 193, 835, and 837. Trams no. 9 and 11 also reach the "Sołacz" stop within a few minutes' walk.
Parking spaces near the entrance to Lumina Park are limited. Parking spaces are located on Wojska Polskiego Street near the University of Life Sciences and at the entrance to the garden from Warmińska Street. During park opening hours, the organizer will provide manually controlled entry and exit onto Warmińska Street from Wojska Polskiego Street. Traffic on Warmińska Street will be alternating during this time – there will be no access to the park via Małopolska Street from Sołacz.
The park's opening days and hours, depending on the time of sunset, can be found on the organizer's website .
Parking on Warmińska Street is limited and permitted only in designated areas. Please exercise caution and use public transportation.
Malta Ice Rink Opens for Winter Season With Expanded Hours and Ice Party Launch
As every year, the ice rink operates in a tent located at the intersection of Jana Pawła II and Baraniaka streets. The rink is open daily from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., and on Fridays and Saturdays, it will be open until 11:00 p.m. Technical breaks for ice cleaning are scheduled at 12:30 p.m., 3:30 p.m., and 6:30 p.m. – each will last approximately 30 minutes.
"Malta is bustling with life. Last year, our seasonal ice rink was visited by almost 50,000 people. It's great that Poznań residents are so keen to use our sports facilities, as exercise and recreation are very important. The city of Poznań wants to create conditions for such activities. This season, the ice rink gained a very quick connection to the city center via the Berdychiv Bridges. I hope that this will bring even more people to the ice rinks at Malta," says Marcin Gołek, Deputy Mayor of Poznań.
To kick off the season, the Poznań Sports and Recreation Centers invite you to a double Ice Party – fun on the ice with music and colorful lights. The first part will begin at 4:00 PM, and the second – after a technical break – at 7:00 PM. DJ Sopel will provide the musical accompaniment.
Tickets and discounts
An hour-long skating session at the Malta Ice Rink costs PLN 16 (regular ticket) and PLN 11 (concession) on weekdays until 3:30 PM. After this time and on weekends and holidays, the prices are PLN 24 and PLN 19, respectively.
Family tickets and discounted passes are also available. The ice rink participates in the OK Poznań program – cardholders can benefit from a 1 PLN free entry to the city's POSiR facilities.
The full price list is available at posir.poznan.pl .
Skates, helmets, and practice walkers in the shape of a seal, bear, or penguin are available for rent on site. Beginners can take advantage of the assistance of a skating instructor, and a skate sharpening station is available for more advanced skaters.
Information about current events and news is published on the official profile of Lodowisko Malta: facebook.com/lodowiskomalta .
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