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.
Majówka in Poland: Celebrating Freedom, History, and Community Across Cities
May in Poland—often called “Majówka”—is one of the most anticipated times of the year. It combines the arrival of spring with an important sequence of national holidays: Labor Day, Polish Flag Day, and Constitution Day. Beyond offering a long weekend for rest and travel, this period holds deep historical and cultural significance. The 3rd of May, in particular, commemorates the adoption of the 1791 Constitution—Europe’s first and the world’s second oldest modern constitution—symbolizing Poland’s long-standing aspirations for democracy and sovereignty. Across the country, cities and towns mark these days with ceremonies, concerts, and community events that blend patriotism with celebration.
Poznań
In Poznań, the main Constitution Day celebrations take place at Plac Wolności, one of the city’s most important public spaces. The program begins with a performance by the Polish Air Force Representative Orchestra, featuring patriotic compositions alongside European-inspired music under the theme “Music Without Borders.” At noon, official ceremonies include the national anthem, the raising of the Polish flag, a reading of the Constitution’s preamble, and a speech by the city’s mayor.
A ceremonial military parade follows, accompanied by a salute and the presence of uniformed services. One of the highlights is a large exhibition of military and emergency vehicles, allowing visitors to explore equipment used by soldiers, police, firefighters, and prison services. Historic public transport vehicles—especially vintage trams—are also showcased, reflecting Poznań’s rich urban heritage.
The celebrations extend beyond the main square. A family-oriented city game organized by scouts invites participants to engage with Polish history in an interactive way. Additionally, the Kopiec Wolności (Freedom Mound) near Lake Malta is open to visitors throughout the day, offering panoramic views and serving as a symbolic site tied to Poland’s independence. Poznań’s events stand out for their scale, combining official ceremonies with educational and family-friendly attractions, making the celebration accessible to all generations.
Toruń
Toruń hosts a two-day celebration filled with patriotic and cultural events. On May 2, Polish Flag Day begins with a military ceremony where residents are given national flags, followed by traditional dance performances and the official raising of the flag. The event highlights national identity and encourages civic participation.
Later, the Bulwar Filadelfijski becomes the stage for a parade of uniformed services and classic vehicles, creating a dynamic and visually engaging spectacle along the Vistula River. In the evening, the open-air concert “Energy of Freedom” takes place at the amphitheater of the Ethnographic Museum. Performed by the Toruń Military Orchestra and guest vocalists, the concert blends patriotic songs with international hits, creating a bridge between tradition and contemporary culture.
On May 3, celebrations shift to a more formal tone. The day begins with a ceremonial laying of flowers and a mass for the homeland at the city’s cathedral. The central square—Rynek Staromiejski—hosts the main military ceremony, including the anthem, official speeches, and a parade featuring soldiers and a historic hussar banner. Toruń’s rich medieval setting adds a unique historical atmosphere to the celebrations, reinforcing the connection between Poland’s past and present.
Bolesławiec
In Bolesławiec, the May holiday blends patriotism with culture and music. Celebrations begin on May 1 with a piano concert as part of the “Chopin Effect” series, featuring works by renowned composers such as Chopin and Beethoven.
On May 2, residents gather in the town square to celebrate Polish Flag Day with the participation of soldiers, a municipal brass band, and official delegations. The day also includes the unveiling of a commemorative plaque dedicated to artist Mieczysław Żołądź, followed by presentations about his life and work.
May 3 starts with a solemn mass, followed by a march and official ceremony at the independence monument. The day concludes with a mix of educational and artistic events, including a lecture on the 1791 Constitution, vocal performances, and another piano concert, emphasizing both historical reflection and cultural expression.
Drawsko Pomorskie
Drawsko Pomorskie celebrates Polish Flag Day with a more intimate but still formal ceremony. Held in front of the local cultural center, the event includes the raising of the national flag in accordance with military protocol.
Organized jointly by local authorities and military representatives, the ceremony encourages residents to gather and express their respect for national symbols. Despite its smaller scale, the event reflects the same spirit of unity and patriotism seen across the country.
Powidz
In Powidz, the Constitution Day celebration begins with a mass dedicated to the homeland, followed by a procession to a commemorative site honoring past generations. The event emphasizes community participation and remembrance.
The local May weekend starts a day earlier with a country-style outdoor festival organized by the community cultural center. This relaxed gathering complements the more formal ceremonies, showing how Polish communities balance tradition with leisure during Majówka.
Majówka in Poland is more than just a long weekend—it is a meaningful blend of remembrance, celebration, and togetherness. Whether in large cities like Poznań and Toruń or in smaller towns and villages, these days bring people together to honor their shared history while enjoying the arrival of spring.
City fountains are back in Poznan
With the arrival of spring, city fountains are returning. Residents and tourists alike are already enjoying the sights of the fountains in Mickiewicza, Maciejewski, and Rataje parks, as well as the Old Warta Riverbed. More fountains will be launched in early May.
The Municipal Greenery Authority has already installed fountains in Poznań's parks. These include those located in front of the Opera House and near the University of Economics, as well as in Rataje and in the old Warta River bed.
A little later this year, the fountain in the Water Garden at the Citadel will be opened. Amphibian migration is currently underway there. The fountain will be activated once the tadpoles have grown a bit.
At a later date, but for different reasons, a fountain will open at the Zbigniew Zakrzewski Green Gardens Square (at the intersection of Zielona, Strzelecka, and Długa Streets). Currently, work is underway on the water, sewage, electrical, and telecommunications systems. Damaged elements are also being repaired, including the concrete bridge and the underground technical chamber with pumps and control valves.
The fountain at the intersection of Marcinkowskiego Avenue and 23 Lutego Street (known as the Kronthal Well) will be closed this season. It has also undergone a comprehensive renovation. Conservation work there includes renovating the dolphin and child sculptures, replacing the water jets, and repairing the stone elements. The work will continue until autumn.
The fountain at Maria Skłodowska-Curie Square will be a delight for Wilda residents next season. Work on the site will begin soon.
The fountains, managed by the Municipal Roads Authority, will be operational on May 1st. These include the fountains in the Old Market Square (Pluto's Abduction of Proserpina, Apollo's Well, Neptune's Well, and Mars' Well), as well as those in Kolegiacki Square, St. Marcin Street, and Wildecki Market Square (Boy Under the Willow). The exception is the fountain in Lazarski Market Square, which will be operational over a week later – on May 9th.
The fountain in Wolności Square, maintained by Estrada Poznańska, is also taking a short May Day break. Work on the mosaic's renovation, which required favorable weather, is nearing completion. A post-winter outage in the technical room, which houses the fountain's heart, is also being repaired. The fountain, with its refreshed appearance, will soon be flowing into the open air.
A fountain is not a swimming pool
The Municipal Police reminds the public of the current ban on swimming in city fountains. Anyone violating this ban must be aware of the consequences. Entering this body of water carries a fine of up to 500 PLN. Regardless of the fines, those who enter do so at their own risk, exposing themselves not only to financial penalties but also to personal danger.
The Poznań 2026 Cycling Map
How to get around the city by bike? Where to find the newest routes and most convenient connections? On Tuesday, April 28th, the latest edition of the Poznań Cycling Map 2026 will premiere.
Poznań has been focusing on developing cycling infrastructure for years, and the network of cycle paths is constantly expanding. To make navigating the city easier, an update to the popular map has been prepared. It features not only existing routes but also the latest investments completed in the last year.
The Poznań Cycling Map 2026 is a compendium of knowledge for every cyclist – both those who commute daily to work and those who enjoy weekend trips. The publication reflects changes to the city's route network, including new connections around the Berdychiv Bridges. The reverse side of the map has been refreshed, making information about regulations, best practices, and infrastructure even clearer and more readable.
The official launch will take place on April 28th at 12:00 PM. The map will be delivered directly to those who use it, so ZDM employees will be present in places bustling with cyclists. Surprise gadgets have been prepared for the first users.
From 12:00 to 14:00, free copies of the map will be available at two points: near the bicycle counters on Berdychów Bridges and on Wartostrada, near the Stare Koryto Warty Park.
As in previous years, the map will also be available in:
- ZDM headquarters, ul. Wilczak 17,
- Paid Parking Zone Office, ul. Głogowska 18,
- Tourist Information Center, Old Market Square 59/60,
- Customer Service Points of the Public Transport Authority.
From Tuesday, April 28, the map will also be available for download from the ZDM website .
Where to barbecue or light a bonfire in Poznań?
In the capital of Greater Poland, you can also light a barbecue outside your own backyard in designated, publicly accessible city areas. Within Poznań, there are also designated areas where you can organize a bonfire.
The popularity of the Warta River area is undoubtedly fueled by the fact that you can light a barbecue on the riverbank (for safety reasons, areas under bridges are prohibited). When organizing a picnic there, remember to leave it tidy – place leftovers from the fire in special ember containers, and other waste in appropriate containers.
Barbecuing is also permitted on grounds managed by the Poznań Sports and Recreation Centers, in designated areas at the municipal swimming areas on Lake Rusałka and Lake Strzeszynek. A bonfire shelter in Kiekrz is also available to residents.
The Municipal Greenery Authority also provides areas where you can organize a bonfire. Designated areas are located: the camping clearing at Szelągowski Park (Nadbrzeże Street), the climbing wall on Hlonda Street, and Szachty Street. To light a bonfire at the latter location, you must register. Simply send an email to kancelaria@zzmpoznan.pl and wait for a response. The other two locations do not require registration; the principle is "first come, first served."
Campfires are also available in municipal forests, but only at designated locations. Two are located on Lake Swarzędzkie – near the forester's lodge and in the clearing. Dates can be arranged by calling 512 387 207. Other locations are located in the Dębińskie forest near the food court and the Marcelińskie forest near the forester's lodge. To light a fire in these locations, contact the site administrators at 505 142 122 (Dębina) or 518 796 513 (Marcelin). A shelter by Lake Strzeszyńskie is also available for those who enjoy a bonfire. Simply arrange a date by calling 512 386 975.
When organizing a barbecue or bonfire, remember to take your trash with you or throw it in the trash. Littering in public areas can result in a fine of up to 500 PLN.
Energa Street Theatre Festival in Toruń
From May 1 to 3, Toruń will once again transform into a vibrant open-air stage during the Energa Street Theatre Festival. This long-running event enriches the city’s cultural scene each spring, inviting visitors to experience theatre in an accessible and engaging way—right in the streets, squares, and public spaces.
This year’s edition promises a spectacular lineup of performances from Poland as well as international artists from Spain and the United Kingdom. Audiences can expect visually striking shows featuring giant lanterns, oversized plants and animals, puppets, and animated figures that bring the city to life in unexpected ways.
The festival’s core idea is to make theatre close and accessible to everyone. Performances often present everyday reality from fresh, creative perspectives and encourage reflection on values and modern life. Whether you are a theatre enthusiast or simply passing by, the event offers a unique opportunity to encounter art in a spontaneous and immersive setting.
PROBALTIKI Musical Tram with a tram gavotte in Torun
On Sunday, May 3, the inhabitants of Toruń and guests of our city will have the opportunity to experience an extraordinary musical adventure - all thanks to the PROBALTIKI Musical Tram, which - as every year - will set off on the occasion of the May 3rd Constitution Day.
During the ride, among other things, a piece composed in 1981 to commemorate the creation of the first tram line in Toruń will be performed.
Once again, the Toruń Municipal Transport Authority is participating in the festival by offering musicians one of its vehicles. This allows passengers to not only easily travel around the city but also listen to beautiful melodies. The event is part of the 33rd Probaltica Baltic Music and Art Festival.
The PROBALTIKI Musical Tram will be on route number 1. It will depart at 1:15 PM from the Uniwersytet loop and continue, according to the timetable, to the Olimpijska loop . From there, we will set off on our return musical journey at 1:53 PM (to the Uniwersytet loop).
Featuring:
- Magda Cysewska - vocals
- Michał Hajduczenia - double bass, vocals
- Robert Matusiak - piano
- Mateusz Szwankowski - clarinet.
The repertoire will include songs by Stanisław Moniuszko, pieces once performed by Helena Grossówna, and—in celebration of the 150th anniversary of Mieczysław Karłowicz's birth—works by this distinguished composer. There will also be a musical touch closely related to Toruń's trams. This will be a performance of "Scherzgavotte," a coeval of Toruń's public transport system, now 135 years old.
"Scherzgavotte", or a humorous gavotte, is a piece by an anonymous composer advertising the first horse tram in Toruń.
It can be assumed that the music was composed in 1891 to mark the opening of Toruń's first tram line. This was a horse-drawn tram that ran from Bydgoskie Przedmieście to Dworzec Miasto. To finance the entire project, the Thorner Strassenbahn company was established, with the city hall and private shareholders as shareholders.
The gavotte was dedicated to all shareholders and non-shareholders involved in the construction of the first tram line.
Information about the gavotte was found in July 2021 in the music resources of the Nicolaus Copernicus University library.
The musical tram will run as a normal scheduled tram, so to listen to the concert you will need to validate your ticket in accordance with the applicable fare.
BolesławiecRun and BoryRun – Running Events in and around Bolesławiec
Bolesławiec and its surrounding areas are becoming an increasingly important destination for running enthusiasts. Two major events – BolesławiecRun and BoryRun – highlight the region’s growing sports potential, offering a mix of urban races and unique forest trail experiences.
BolesławiecRun, scheduled for May 17, 2026, is the city’s flagship running event. Following the success of its first edition, the race returns with an expanded program designed for participants of all ages and skill levels. Runners can choose from a half marathon (21 km), shorter 10 km and 5 km routes, the European Health Run, as well as a 5 km Nordic Walking option. The event also includes children’s races, making it a family-friendly celebration of sport. The city’s market square once again becomes the vibrant center of activity, filled with entertainment, competitions, and cheering crowds.
Complementing the urban race is BoryRun, a unique running festival set in the picturesque Lower Silesian Forests near Bolesławiec. This event offers a completely different experience, taking participants through scenic woodland trails. Distances include a full marathon, half marathon, 10 km runs, and Nordic Walking. One of its standout features is the “Uniform Run,” a demanding 10 km race dedicated to members of uniformed services such as the army, police, and fire brigade. Participants compete in full uniform and boots, turning the race into a true test of endurance and strength. The event also welcomes runners with dogs, adding to its inclusive and distinctive character.
Together, these two events showcase the diversity of running opportunities in the region—from dynamic city races to challenging nature trails. Whether you are an experienced athlete or a casual participant, Bolesławiec offers a compelling mix of sport, community, and scenic landscapes.
Początek formularza
The American orchestra delighted the people of Bolesławiec.
The residents of Bolesławiec enjoyed a special evening of music. The American USAFE Band performed at the Forum Cinema, commemorating the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States.
The audience gave the musicians a standing ovation from the very first moment. The concert began with the Polish and American national anthems, followed by the Bolesławiec bugle call. After that, it was all about intensity – for over two hours, the stage was filled with film music, classical music, and well-known melodies in modern arrangements, including a Chopin polonaise.
There were encores, excitement, and face-to-face meetings with the artists after the concert. The audience eagerly chatted with the musicians and took souvenir photos. The atmosphere? Unanimously – excellent.
The USAFE Band, founded by Glenn Miller in 1943, is an orchestra with a history dating back to 1943. Today, it comprises 45 professional musicians who perform hundreds of concerts annually in Europe and Africa, combining jazz, classical, and contemporary sounds.
The concert in Bolesławiec was part of the Freedom 250 tour, which included eight Polish cities. It was not only music but also a symbol of Polish-American cooperation and friendship.
Majowka in Żary and Żagań. Plenty of concerts !
Majowka 2026 in Żary and Żagań. If you're not heading to the mountains or the seaside, you certainly won't be bored. Nocny Kochanek, Anna Maria Jopek, Blanka, and Łydka Grubasa are the stars invited to Żary and Żagań.Dół formularza
The May long weekend in Żary and Żagań in 2026 promises to be exciting. Both cities will have plenty going on, so if you're not planning a trip to the mountains or the seaside, you certainly won't be bored. Here's a detailed concert schedule.
May Day in Żary
Most of the events will take place in the Market Square. Local bands from the Żary Cultural Center will perform on the stage set up by the Town Hall, along with artists like Łydka Grubasa, who will perform their famous "Rapapara" and other hits. Fans of softer music will also enjoy a special treat: a concert by Anna Maria Jopek
MAY 1 - Friday
- 17.00 - ŻDK bands - Eter, Countless, Deafis, Zryw
- 19.00 - Fat Man's Calf
MAY 2 - Saturday
- 12.00 - Silesian-Lusatian Borderland Museum - lecture by Dr. Rafał Szymczak on cavalry traditions in Żary,
- 14.00 - a show of the Poznań Uhlan Volunteer Unit in the city park,
- 16.00 - City Market Square, concert by students of the State Music School,
- 5:00 p.m. - performance of the vocal section of DUO ŻDK,
- 7:00 PM - Circus
MAY 3 - Sunday
- 11.30 - Mass for the Homeland in the Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus at Cardinal Wyszyński Square,
- 6:00 PM - Papal Concert in the Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus - Organic Music - Anna Maria Jopek, Piotr Wojtasik, Igor Pietraszewski, Piotr Rojek - free admission!
May Day in Żagań
In Żagań, we'll be partying in Książęcy Park, and the announcement of the Night Lover concert is already generating a lot of excitement. What else will you see on stage this May weekend?
MAY 1 - Friday
- 18.00 - Mosi Soley,
- 18.40 - Empty,
- 19.20 - dance show by the Pasja group,
- 20.00 - Blanka
- 21.00 - DJ Max Ouder
MAY 2 - Saturday
- 18.00 - Military Orchestra of the 11th LDKPanc. and vocalists of the Black Division club,
- 19.00 - Maja Paczkowska,
- 20.00 - Dead Schabuff Formation,
- 21.00 - DJ Spruce.
MAY 3 - Sunday
- 6:00 p.m. - vocal section of the ZPK talent school,
- 19.00 - Paulina Styś and Karolina Poprawska,
- 20.00 - Night Lover
May Day Vintage Car Rally in Słubice
The International Historic Vehicle and Automotive Technology Rally in Słubice, organized by the Nagar Association, will be held for the sixth time. We now know the detailed program for the event, which will take place in early May.
Automotive gems are back in Słubice
The lot will feature both very old cars and newer classics from the second half of the 20th century. Many of these are examples that their owners have personally restored over the years and brought to their current condition. These are vehicles rarely seen on regular roads.
The rally is also a great opportunity to meet new people. Car owners are eager to share their stories about their vehicles: where they got them, how much work went into restoring them, and their history. For many participants, it's an annual gathering of friends from across the country and beyond.
A parade of vintage vehicles through the city streets
One of the most visible moments will be the passage of a column of vintage cars through Słubice. The vehicles will be on the city streets, allowing visitors to see them in motion, not just parked. This always attracts a large crowd who come to watch and take photos.
The program will also include lighter events. One of them is the Janusz and Grażynek Run, which has been a staple of the rally's atmosphere for several years. Organizers have also planned competitions and awards for participants and the vehicles on display.
The finale of the rally to the sounds of music
After the parade and vintage car exhibition, it's time for the concerts. Kobranocka and Sztywny Pal Azja will take the stage , concluding the day with a musical highlight and drawing the audience to the stage.
A gathering that has become a permanent fixture in the May weekend in Słubice
The event attracts more and more people each year. It has become a permanent fixture on the May Day weekend in Słubice, and one of the events that regularly brings together car enthusiasts and local residents.
The program of the vintage car rally in Słubice
The event will take place on Friday (May 1st) at the Słubice sports field. Below is the program for the 6th Anniversary International Rally of Historic Vehicles and Automotive Technology:
9.00 to 12.00 Exhibitor Registration
- (entry and unloading of vehicles at the square from Sportowa Street)
- 13:00 Parade through the Streets of Słubice
- 13:50 Opening of the Rally, welcoming participants and guests.
- 14.00 Rally Exhibition
- 14.30 Engine Throw Automotive Competition from Komarek
- 15:15 Endurance Competition – Holding an empty Keg for the duration
- 16.00 Grażynek and Januszy Run
- 17.00 Asia's Stiff Pal
- 19.00 Kobranocka
- 21:00 End of the Rally
The Powidz Cultural Center invites you to a country-style May Day celebration
On May 2nd, the Green Courtyard of Culture in Powidz will turn into a real WILD WEST!
Get your hats and cowboy boots ready and join the country style fun!
The organizers are preparing many attractions:
- thematic scenography and animations for adults and children,
- dance workshops,
- competitions (including milking a cow and shearing a sheep),
- Texas-style food served by Jadło w plenerze,
- CONCERT of the country duo performed by artists Michael Lonstar and Leszek Laskowski!
Admission is free!
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