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.
'Relaxation Paths' open in Poznań on former golf course site
An interesting recreational route for runners and walkers has been created, leading through the forest.
The forest area was developed as part of the PBO "Zielone Fyrtle 2025" project, which - depending on the estate - included new plantings, maintenance of existing greenery, and expansion of infrastructure for residents, including playgrounds and small-scale architecture.
"As part of the project, three forest walking and running trails of varying lengths were marked in the Krzyżowniki-Smochowice estate: 1.7 km, 3.5 km, and 5.3 km. All trails are marked with wooden signs. For each distance, the start and finish lines are located at the edge of the forest, at the intersection of Polanowska and Elbląska streets. Seating areas and garbage cans have been placed along the trails," city officials inform.
The Krzyżowniki-Smochowice Estate Council requested the designation of a forest trail for runners and walkers. "In 2016, when I moved into the estate, the center of the grounds, which was still a nursery at the time, was fenced off by a wall. My first run extended several kilometers before I found my way back. It was then that marked recreational paths every half a kilometer in the estate's green spaces became my dream. Many years later, as a counselor, I proposed that we try to implement this idea within the framework of the PBO," recalls Katarzyna Czarnowska from the Krzyżowniki-Smochowice Estate Council.
Thanks to the residents' votes, the idea won. Work on the "Relaxation Paths" was completed by the end of 2025, with the Poznań Forests Authority, the landowner, overseeing the project.
The new recreational routes will be available for testing on April 12th (at 3:00 PM) during the "Relaxation Run." " This is a response to the needs of residents who long for integration and shared activities in green spaces," explains Katarzyna Czarnowska. As she recalls, the organized run returned to the estate after eight years (the last edition of the Smochowice "Run for Health" took place in May 2018) – with a new, fully forested route and a different name.
During the April event, participants will be able to choose from two routes – 5 or 10 km. Organizers estimate that around 200 people will participate. "We're starting off quite small, but we already have plans for future editions, including a winter run. Our goal is to have fun and show that these areas have enormous recreational potential. The run will be an opportunity to meet, socialize, and chat. Two distances to choose from and an extended time limit will allow for both testing your skills and complete relaxation – you can easily complete 5 km within the 105-minute time limit," encourages Katarzyna Czarnowska.
The race is organised by the Krzyżowniki-Smochowice Estate Council and the School and Kindergarten Complex No. 14. Details about the event and registration information are available on social media.
As a reminder, a growing forest is growing on the site of the former garden nursery in Krzyżowniki, where the race will take place. A golf course was previously planned there, but in 2019, Poznań's mayor, Jacek Jaśkowiak, decided to afforest the plot between Słupska, Polanowska, and Białoborska streets, which required a change to the local zoning plan. Intensive afforestation began in the fall of 2021, and the first stage – completed in November of last year – yielded 87,000 new plants. In the coming years, another 6,000 trees will be planted in the area.
Installation begins on King Przemysł II monument in Poznań
The monument to King Przemysł II will be erected at the intersection of Franciszkańska and Góra Przemysła Streets. The sculpture was designed by Stanisław Szwechowicz, whose design won second prize in a competition held in June 2021. The project includes the construction of a plinth and the reconstruction of the retaining wall, while preserving the existing greenery, ensuring that the monument blends harmoniously with its surroundings.
"Work began with archaeological research conducted on the site of the future monument. After its completion, construction of the plinth, which forms the foundation for the entire structure, began. All work is being carried out under the supervision of the Municipal Conservator of Monuments to preserve the historic character of the site and its landscape values," city officials remind us.
"Commemorating the king in the Old Town has a symbolic dimension - it is intended to emphasize his connection with Poznań and the role the city played in the history of Polish statehood," emphasize representatives of the Poznań city hall.
Przemysł II was one of the most important figures in the history of Greater Poland. Born in Poznań, he was Duke of Poznań, then of Greater Poland and Kraków, and from 1295 to 1296, King of Poland.
New 3D exhibition offers journey back in time in Poznań
The current exhibition presents an image of Egypt from over a hundred years ago. "The photographs presented documents of both the most recognizable monuments, such as the Sphinx, the Great Pyramid of Giza, and the Temple of Luxor, as well as scenes from the everyday lives of its inhabitants. The photographs capture a space devoid of modern urban development and tourist infrastructure, allowing for a look at the landscape and realities of the era in their historical context, city officials inform.
"All the objects are original glass stereo photographs taken by professional photographers at the turn of the 19th and 20th centuries. Thanks to this technology, visitors can view the archival materials in three-dimensional form, providing a unique visual record of Egypt's heritage. The collection was made available by Fotoplastikon Warszawski," they add.
The exhibition is on view until May 2nd at the Poznań Fotoplastykon (entrance through the Cultural Information Center, ul. Ratajczaka 44) from Monday to Friday from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, and on Saturdays from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The facility is closed on Sundays and public holidays. A standard ticket costs PLN 6, a concession PLN 3 (for children from 3 years of age, youth, students, retirees, pensioners, and honorary blood and transplant donors).
A family ticket costs PLN 12 (for at least 1 child and 2 guardians, or 3 children and 1 guardian). Groups of more than 10 people pay PLN 25 regardless of age. Children under 3 years old enter free of charge. The OK Poznań Card, Large Family Card, and Poznań Tourist Card are accepted.
New trains on Poznań-Warsaw route to offer faster travel, lower fares
Six pairs of trains will run from March.
RegioJet has begun selling tickets for the enhanced rail connection between Warsaw and Poznań. Starting Sunday, March 1, 2026, the carrier will launch additional services – a total of six pairs of trains will run on the route daily. Tickets for all new connections are already available for sale.
"Not only do we offer passengers the fastest journey times, but also significantly lower prices than our competitors. The cheapest ticket starts at just 27 złoty. High-quality on-board service, including free coffee and other affordable products from our menu, is also a matter of course," says RegioJet owner Radim Jancura. Cheesecake with chocolate crumble for just 2 złoty has been a popular item among passengers for years.
The expansion of the yellow train service confirms RegioJet's ambition to further strengthen competition in the Polish rail market and offer passengers an attractive combination of price, comfort, and speed. " Our goal is to offer passengers high-quality services, fair prices, and stable working conditions for employees. Positive feedback confirms that we are on the right track," adds Radim Jancura.
From Warszawa Centralna station, trains will depart at 6:28 a.m., 9:28 a.m., 12:28 p.m., 2:28 p.m., 5:28 p.m., and 7:25 p.m. In the opposite direction, from Poznań Główny station, trains will depart at 6:13 a.m., 8:11 a.m., 10:11 a.m., 2:11 p.m., 4:11 p.m., and 6:11 p.m. Each train between Poznań and Warszawa Centralna will take a maximum of 2 hours and 18 minutes, while the fastest journey is 2 hours and 12 minutes.
Next Fest to feature international announcement
While Next Fest Music Showcase & Conference is primarily a celebration of Polish music, the program once again features international artists. Artists from Iceland, the UK, France, Hungary, Canada, Germany, Denmark, the Czech Republic, and Belarus will come to Poznań in April. These new names join over 90 previously announced artists, including Vito Bambino, Peja Slums Attack, John Porter, Xxanaxx, Ewa Farna, Natalia Szroeder, Słoń, Bass Astral, Kuba i Kuba, Bonaventura, and Boron.
The UK trio Ebbb deserves special mention. In October 2025, they stole the show as support for Shame at Warsaw's Nieba, proving they are one of the most exciting phenomena on the British Isles. Also arriving from the UK will be members of Hayes & Y, who, after moving from Bulgaria to London, have become regulars at Europe's biggest festivals, and the atmospheric, trip-hop synth-pop duo Oslo Twins, known for their collaborations with The Last Dinner Party. Rounding out the British lineup is Rozsa, who, with electronic harp in hand, perfectly balances jazz and neo-R&B, a feat that has already led her to the Glastonbury stage three times.
Virgin Orchestra will be arriving in Poznań from Reykjavík. As befits Icelanders, they deliver musical eclecticism with a powerful emotional charge. It's a fairytale dream pop that, without warning, collides with noise walls of guitars and raw grime, creating music that is literally out of this world.
The French scene is represented by a strong team of producers and dance projects. Airmow creates immersive soundscapes inspired by cinema and fashion, while Antilogic, based in the capital of Brittany, filters contemporary club scene inspiration through the filter of Polynesian roots in her sets. Another French accent is s8jfou, a musical nomad who, in his latest project, completely breaks away from technological conventions in favor of absolute creative freedom. Rounding out the French lineup is the duo Jeannette & Maj, whose goal is to get audiences dancing with their mix of garage house and soul.
Ambre Ciel, an artist signed to Gondwana Records, will be flying in from Canada. She combines airy alt-pop with minimalist inspirations from the works of Steve Reich and Philip Glass, creating fragile structures with an almost cinematic scale.
Hungary's lineup is particularly impressive. A strong presence will be the presence of projects supported by the export label HOTS (Hungarian Oncoming Tunes), which promotes local artists internationally. Performing under the HOTS banner in Poznań will be Jules War, who blends subtle Americana with dream pop; the ethereal and dreamy band Maluridé; and the psychedelic-garage duo Stone Sober, known for their raw playing and powerful riffs (their presence is made possible thanks to the support of HOTS and the Hangfoglaló program). Completing the Hungarian lineup is Acid Empire, a dark blend of industrial and rap-metal enriched with the sounds of the theremin.
From Denmark, Tender Youth will arrive, combining punk edginess with art-rock emotionality, while from the Czech Republic, Midnight Swimmers will join us, bringing indie-rock rhythms embellished with melancholic ambient. Rounding out the bill are the Belarusian project Domsun, enamored with breakbeats and vintage samples, and the German project Dolphin Love, serving up sun-drenched electropop that's the perfect blast of optimism.
Industry Alliances at Next Fest
Next Fest Music Showcase & Conference is a space where the industry, artists, and audiences meet to explore current trends in music. This year's program features more showcases from labels (Hi Vibe, Kayax, Niebieski Label, and Szum have already been announced), which have taken on the most interesting debuts. Wytwórnia Tematy will present projects in Poznań by Clayknot, Najniszy Człowiek, sea saw, and The Ferrules. Independent Digital will feature Manoid, Mongird, Oliwia Socha, and Xavier. Peleton Records, meanwhile, will focus on the DIY ethos and guitar-driven energy of bands like Kresy, Sztylety, Torschlusspanik, and We Watch Clouds. The latest announced alliance is Next Music, which will showcase Gaya, Karolina Czarnecka, and the duo Mili Jack.
The upcoming Next Fest Music Showcase & Conference will take place April 16-18 at several locations in Poznań. Around 100 artists will perform. The event also includes an industry conference. More information about the program and the initiative itself can be found at www.nextfest.pl . Festival passes are available at www.eventim.pl/goodtaste.
The event is organized by Good Taste Production. The festival is co-organized by the Musical Theatre in Poznań. The main partner is the City of Poznań, and the strategic partner is CK Zamek. Co-financed by the Minister of Culture and National Heritage under the Creative Industries Development Center's own program: Creative Sector Development.
Construction begins on Japanese Garden of Imagination
An attractive space designed in accordance with Japanese gardening will be created in the western part of the Old Zoo. Preparatory work has begun for the first phase of the project, which will include the construction of a tea gazebo, among other things.
"The Japanese Garden of Imagination was a project selected by residents in the Poznań Participatory Budget. It will be an aesthetically pleasing place for relaxation, meetings, and education. Initial on-site activities include securing trees and clearing the area, which will be developed with new architecture and plants. Work is being conducted under herpetological supervision to protect the newt population living on the site," says Tomasz Płóciniczak, Vice President of Poznańskie Inwestycje Miejskie.
Before work began, the condition of existing plants was analyzed, as well as any conflicts with planned attractions and plantings. Preparatory work involves securing desirable trees already growing in the garden, but also removing several trees identified for reasons including phytosanitary status (e.g., dead branches), poor prognosis, invasiveness, or competition for more valuable species. Shrubs are being removed if they interfere with the planned tea arbor. Based on the herpetologist's recommendations, consideration will be given to retaining stumps and logs for newts, which may use them as habitats.
What's new at the Old Zoo
A new attraction, to be implemented as part of the first phase of work, will be a tea gazebo, which will serve as a place for contemplation and tea-making gatherings. It was designed using traditional timber frame technology. Individual elements will be joined together using carpentry techniques without the use of metal fittings. This solution will create a lightweight structure with an elegant and traditional appearance, emphasizing its Far Eastern inspiration. The entire structure will be set on stone foundations. Stone lanterns and bowls are also planted in the surrounding area. A mineral-surfaced path will lead to the tea gazebo, along which a waiting area with a covered seat will be planned. This will complement the garden space, providing a place for waiting and relaxation on the way to the gazebo. The designers ensured harmonious integration with the surroundings by using the same materials and style in the waiting area as in the gazebo.
Another attraction will be the so-called Turtle Island on the pond at the Old Zoo. It's a stone composition depicting a turtle floating on the water with its head raised.
The first phase of the project also includes new greenery, irrigation, and various stone compositions. Educational boards will also be installed.
More stages are planned
The implementation of subsequent stages of the project depends on the city's financial resources. Subsequent stages include water and rock attractions, small-scale architecture, new path surfaces, and even more greenery. Ultimately, the Japanese Garden of Imagination is planned to cover nearly 7,500 square meters.
The project is intended to reflect the rich tradition of Japanese horticulture. The planned space will not only be a place for relaxation and education; it also aims to enhance the landscape of the Old Zoo, attract new visitors, and share knowledge about Japanese traditions, customs, and philosophy, in which the balance between humanity and nature plays a crucial role. In gardens of this type, every element is significant, while simultaneously leaving room for the visitor's imagination and interpretation, stimulating the mind. Through the implementation of all stages, inspiration from the Land of the Rising Sun will harmoniously blend with the rich history of the Old Zoo.
Toruń to host 70th Polish Indoor Athletics Championships
After the exciting 12th ORLEN Copernicus Cup, the time has come for the culmination of the national indoor season – the 70th Polish Indoor Athletics Championships. The anniversary event will take place from February 28 to March 1, 2026, at the Kujawsko-Pomorska Arena Toruń .
The Kujawsko-Pomorska Arena Toruń will once again become the center of competition for the country's best athletes. Toruń is hosting the Polish Indoor Championships for the twelfth time in history, strengthening its position as a key venue on the national track and field map.
During the two-day anniversary celebration, fans will be able to watch competition in almost every athletics discipline – from sprints and middle-distance races, through technical events, to all-around events. A total of 454 competitors were registered, including some of Poland's best athletes – Ewa Swoboda, Pia Skrzyszowska, Natalia Bukowiecka, Jakub Szymański, Damian Czykier, as well as Piotr Lisek, Konrad Bukowiecki, Anastazja Kuś, and Maciej Wyderka.
Such a strong lineup promises top-tier competition, with a quest for not only medals but also record-breaking results. The Toruń championships will not only be the culmination of the national indoor season, but also a key qualifying stage for the World Indoor Championships, which will take place on March 20-22, also in Toruń.
The main championship sessions will take place on Saturday from 5:00 p.m. and on Sunday from 2:00 p.m. Eliminations and some of the multi-award events are scheduled for the morning.
The anniversary edition of the championships is organized by the Municipality of Toruń and the Kuyavian-Pomeranian Athletics Association under the auspices of the Polish Athletics Association. The event will be televised by TVP Sport.
Tickets : https://www.ebilet.pl/sport/pozostale/halowe-mistrzostwa-polski
The minute program of the 70th Polish Indoor Senior Athletics Championships
32nd Bolesławiec Ceramics Festival to begin at railway station
In 1946, the first settlers from the Eastern Borderlands and Yugoslavia arrived in Bolesławiec by train.
This year, the 32nd Bolesławiec Ceramics Festival (August 19-23) will begin in a unique and symbolic way, unlike in previous years. As Mayor Piotr Roman announced during a City Council session, the official opening of the event will take place at the Bolesławiec Railway Station. The choice of this location is not accidental – it reflects important events in the history of the city and its residents.
Eighty years ago, settlers resettled from the Eastern Borderlands and former Yugoslavia arrived in Bolesławiec. Many of them arrived by train, often in difficult conditions, and by freight wagon. It was they who co-created the city's postwar history and forged its identity. The railway station then became a symbol of new beginnings, hope, and the rebuilding of life in an unfamiliar place.
The year 2026 also marks the 80th anniversary of the establishment of Zakład Ceramiczny sp. z o.o. – one of the city's most important ceramic companies, which for decades has been promoting Bolesławiec ceramics both domestically and internationally. The Bolesławiec Ceramics Museum, which has long been dedicated to preserving and promoting local ceramic heritage, is also joining in the anniversary celebrations. The museum is announcing special events, exhibitions, and educational activities related to both the history of the post-war settlers and the development of Bolesławiec ceramics.
The convergence of these anniversaries provided the impetus to give this year's inauguration a special, historic character. The organizers have been working for some time on a celebration plan that will combine artistic elements with reflection on the past and a presentation of the work of local artists.
The Bolec.Info portal will be the media patron of the Bolesławiec Ceramics Festival and will provide ongoing information on the preparations and program of the event. The opening ceremony will also be honored by the "Ziemi Bolesławiecka" Song and Dance Ensemble, celebrating its 50th anniversary, which will present a specially prepared artistic program.
We cordially invite residents and visitors to participate in the grand opening of the 32nd Bolesławiec Ceramics Festival. This unique event, combining tradition, history, and modernity, will be a celebration for the entire city, as it is every year. We will keep you updated on the Bolesławiec Ceramics Festival.
Poznań half marathon announces new route
For its eighteenth anniversary, the Poznań Half Marathon has prepared a completely new route, which will be attended by several thousand people on Sunday, April 19th. The start time will also change. Competitors will begin their race at 9:00 AM.
Although the finish line of the 18th PKO Poznań Half Marathon will traditionally be located at Marka Square on the Poznań International Fair grounds, the starting gate will no longer be on Grunwaldzka Street. The race will begin on Roosevelta Street, right next to the main entrance (Eastern Hall) to the Fair grounds.
After the starting gun, runners will set off along Głogowska Street to the intersection with Hetmańska Street, from which they will head towards Arciszewskiego Street. They will then reach Grunwaldzka Street through Górczyn and Raszyn, where they will run towards Junikowo. The half marathon loop will then include Cmentarna, Owcza, Złotowska, Bukowska, and Bułgarska Streets. Runners will take Marcelińska Street to the Marceliński Forest, and from there, for the first time in the history of the Poznań Half Marathon, they will proceed to Enea Stadium. A long straight course along Grunwaldzka Street will lead them to the finish line.
"This year's route runs along streets that have never hosted a half marathon before. A unique feature, just like during the Poznań Marathon 2025, will be the opportunity to run across the Enea Stadium pitch. I believe the runners will enjoy this new option, and I'm convinced that the Poznań audience will show great support for the runners. I'm counting on this personally, as I also plan to run in this year's half marathon," says Marcin Gołek, Deputy Mayor of Poznań.
Participants of the 18th PKO Poznań Half Marathon can check out the new features on the race website . Among other things, there will be an interactive map showing not only the route and the location of refreshment stations, but also interesting facts about nearby tourist attractions.
Extension of cooperation
At the beginning of the year, Poznań Sports and Recreation Centres extended their cooperation with the title sponsor of the race – PKO Bank Polski.
"PKO Bank Polski has been sponsoring the Poznań Half Marathon since 2016. Over the past decade, our event has always been among the top road races in Poland, with fantastic turnout and athletic performance. I'm glad we're continuing our run together," notes Łukasz Miadziołko, director of the 18th PKO Poznań Half Marathon.
Currently, over 11,500 people have registered for the April race. Space is limited to 14,000. Registration is available online via the registration form . This year's half marathon will also welcome wheelchair runners.
Social Sharing