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.
Armed Forces Day in Toruń
As every year, Toruń joins the celebration of Polish Armed Forces Day. In addition to official ceremonies attended by city officials, residents and tourists can also enjoy events related to military traditions.
Polish Armed Forces Day is celebrated on August 15, the anniversary of the victorious Battle of Warsaw in 1920. In Toruń, ceremonies will be held in several locations related to military history and the memory of those who contributed to Poland's independence.
Official celebration of Polish Army Day
The Toruń commemorations will begin at 9:45 a.m. with a wreath-laying ceremony at the Balloon Troops Monument on Bogusław Magiera Avenue . Participants will then proceed to the General Józef Haller monument, where wreaths will also be laid at 10:15 a.m.
The main part of Polish Armed Forces Day at the Toruń Garrison will begin at 10:30 a.m. Holy Mass will be celebrated at the same time in the Garrison Church at St. Catherine's Square . Following the Mass, at 11:30 a.m. , units are scheduled to march to the Marshal Józef Piłsudski Monument . At 12:00 p.m. , the report will be made and a ceremonial roll call will begin. The official commemorations will conclude at 1:00 p.m. with the laying of wreaths at the Marshal Józef Piłsudski Monument .
Celebration also at the Artillery Museum
The Artillery Museum in Toruń also invites you to join the celebration on August 15th . Admission to the museum will be free from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM . One of the main attractions will be a display of modern military equipment from the General Józef Bem Missile and Artillery Training Center and the 8th Kuyavian-Pomeranian Territorial Defense Brigade .
During the event, the Military Property Agency, the Railway Protection Guard, the State Forests, the Border Guard, JS 1909 Toruń ZS "Strzelec" JP and the Military Recruitment Centre in Toruń will also have their stands.
From 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM, you can also visit the Artillery Museum. This is an opportunity to explore its exhibits, see modern military equipment up close, and learn about the activities of the services and organizations participating in the event.
Speedbike festival in Toruń. Participation is free.
The first edition of the Toruń Open Individual Speedbike Championships took place in 1999. At that time, competitors competed on a track located near the Toruń Wschodni train station. Twenty-seven years later, the competition for the title of best speedbike riders remains one of the most recognizable and respected events in the region.
This year's edition will take place on August 15th at the track on Skierki Street in the Kaszczorek housing estate. The event is open to everyone, so everyone can try their hand at it. Competition will be held in seven categories: under 5 (balance bikes), under 6, under 10, under 12, under 15, amateur, and open.
The Toruń Championships demonstrate that speedbike is a sport for everyone. Children on balance bikes, first-timers, and even the best riders in the country will be on the track. The most important thing is the joy of riding, and that's what unites all categories, " says Bartosz Fryckowski, president of TSŻ Kancelaria Pietrusiński Toruń.
Information for participants
In the under-5 age category, participants must bring their own balance bikes. In the under-6, 10, and 12 age categories, organizers also encourage participants to bring their own bikes. This is because for many children, their first experience on a speedbike can be quite a challenge.
However, the club will provide professional bikes, which participants in the under-15 category and amateurs must use.
Each participant in the championships must wear a helmet, long-sleeved clothing, athletic shoes (preferably indoor), and gloves. They must also have no health contraindications to participating in sports.
Participation in the event is free. All participants will receive gifts, and prizes await the top winners.
The top Polish speedbike riders in Toruń
The Open category tournament promises to be particularly exciting. At 8:00 PM, the best players in the country will take to the track, including medalists from the World, European, and Polish Championships, as well as players who have been competing at the highest level for years. Among them will be representatives of TSŻ Kancelaria Pietrusiński Toruń.
We've assembled a very strong lineup. Even when inviting competitors, we saw how prestigious the Toruń Championships are in the country. The names appearing in the Open tournament guarantee excellent racing. The starting list looks almost like the finals of the Polish Individual Championships. We believe it will be an excellent promotion for speedbike racing in Toruń, " emphasizes Bartosz Fryckowski.
The competition will have a unique setting, as it will be held under artificial lighting. Fans will be treated to special glowing gadgets. Organizers are also preparing additional attractions to enhance the unique atmosphere of the event.
Admission to the Open category tournament is free.
Toruń, the world capital of precision flying. Opening of the 26th FAI World Championships
Toruń has become a gathering place for the world's leading sports aviation experts. On Sunday, August 9, 2026, the 26th FAI World Precision Flying Championships officially opened at the Pomeranian Aeroclub Airport. The ceremony was attended by Toruń Mayor Paweł Gulewski, who welcomed competitors and championship guests to a city with a long aviation tradition.
This year's championships feature 47 pilots from eight countries: Germany, France, China, Sweden, Switzerland, Norway, Slovakia, and Poland . The Polish national team enters the competition as the reigning team world champions, while Michał Wieczorek will defend the individual title he won at the previous championships in France in 2022.
Precision flying is one of the most demanding disciplines in sport aviation. Success is determined not by speed, but by the accuracy of each flight element. Competitors compete in flight planning tests, navigation challenges, and precision landing trials. Any deviation, even the slightest, from the designated route, time, or touchdown location results in penalty points.
During the opening ceremony, Toruń Mayor Paweł Gulewski emphasized that hosting the championships further confirmed the city's strong ties to aviation. " Toruń has always been a place that has supported aviation ," he said, also recalling the over 90-year history of the Pomeranian Aeroclub.
" We are in a place that has existed since 1913. This is where the adventures of many flying aces began, and over the decades, successive generations have learned this difficult art, " the president noted.
Paweł Gulewski also highlighted the unique nature of the championship venue. He encouraged competitors and guests to explore Toruń, its history, and heritage beyond the competition. " Toruń is not just about aviation and flying, but also the city of Nicolaus Copernicus, delicious, sweet Toruń gingerbread, and, of course, the Old Town, which has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site for 30 years, " he said.
At the end of his speech, the president wished all participants safe competition and sporting excitement: "As many take-offs as landings. All the best. Have fun, have a spectacular time, and above all, stay safe . "
On behalf of the Fédération Aéronautique Internationale (FAI), Philippe Muller of the FAI General Aviation Commission opened the competition : " It is a great honor for me to welcome you on behalf of the FAI. I wish all competitors a successful and enjoyable week. Medals are important, but the memories, friendships, and experiences you take home with you will stay with you longer, " noted Philippe Muller, also conveying greetings from the President of the FAI General Aviation Commission, Ralf Grunwald .
Jerzy Wiśniewski, President of the Pomeranian Aeroclub and Championship Director, emphasized that the selection of Toruń as the competition host is an expression of confidence in the organizers and a confirmation of the local airport's position on the global aviation map. " It is important for us to position our airport as a significant point on the global aviation map, " he noted.
Toruń Airport has a particularly rich history. Its origins date back to 1912-1913, and it has served as a sports airport since 1945. The Pomeranian Aeroclub has been operating since 1935. In recent years, Toruń has hosted numerous top-tier events, including the 2014 World Rally Flying Championships, the 2019 European Aerobatics Championships, and the 2017 and 2023 World Glider Aerobatics Championships.
Toruń is also associated with the figure of Bolesław Radomski – a graduate of the Pomeranian Aeroclub, who in 2013 in Germany won the individual world championship in precision flying and also won the Polish championship many times.
The 26th FAI World Precision Flying Championships will run until August 14th. After practice and the opening ceremony, competitors will compete in championship events from August 10th to 13th. The event will culminate in a closing ceremony and medal presentation on Friday.
A new attraction at the Ceramics Festival in Boleslawiec. Take a souvenir photo here.
"I love Bolesławiec" with a ceramic accent. The new installation is now ready.
Bolesławiec has a new photo opportunity for residents and tourists. A striking installation bearing the inscription "I love Bolesławiec" has been erected in front of the city's brine thermal baths.
The white, three-dimensional inscription draws attention with its distinctive cobalt heart. However, this is no ordinary tourist symbol. The heart is adorned with a pattern inspired by traditional Bolesławiec ceramics.
The Municipal Public Utilities Department is behind the project. The installation is intended not only to be a feature of the cityscape, but also another attraction that visitors to Bolesławiec will eagerly photograph.
The cobalt heart appeared in the city just before the Bolesławiec Ceramics Festival, when thousands of tourists visit Bolesławiec. Perhaps a photo with the inscription "I love Bolesławiec" will soon become a must-see when visiting the city.
Mushroom picking in Bolesławiec and the surrounding area
Mushroom picking season has begun in the forests of Lower Silesia. Before heading out into the forests in the Bolesławiec County, it's worth reviewing safety rules.
The Lower Silesian Voivodeship Office reminds us that mushroom picking season is now open in the region. This is also important information for residents of Bolesławiec and the Bolesławiec County, who often head to Lower Silesian forests for mushrooms in the fall. Officials emphasize that forest picking should be conducted carefully, and that only mushrooms that are absolutely certain should be placed in the basket.
The basic rule is to pick only well-identified species.
When in doubt, it's worth using a current mushroom atlas or reliable apps, but don't base your decisions on guesswork. Beginner mushroom pickers are advised to prioritize tubular mushrooms, those with a characteristic "sponge" under the cap, as this group doesn't include any deadly poisonous specimens.
Storage methods are also important. It's best to place mushrooms in a well-ventilated basket, not in a plastic bag, where they spoil more quickly and can infuse. Avoid picking mushrooms growing along roads, industrial plants, or other areas exposed to pollution. Mushrooms absorb heavy metals and other harmful substances from the environment.
The Lower Silesian Voivodeship Office also warns against dangerous myths regarding mushroom identification. Avoid testing them on the tongue or assuming that a mushroom gnawed by slugs is edible. As the authorities remind us, some deadly poisonous mushrooms can have a pleasant, sweet taste, so such methods can lead to tragic consequences.
Safe mushroom picking in the Bolesławiec area involves not only being careful when identifying species, but also preparing for the forest itself. Before heading out, it's a good idea to charge your phone, which can help you call for help and determine your location if you get lost. It's also a good idea to inform loved ones where you're going and what time you plan to return. Those unfamiliar with the forest should not venture out alone.
Officials also remind people to dress appropriately. Cover your skin in the forest to reduce the risk of tick bites, and choose bright clothing or reflective items to improve visibility. If you have any concerns about the mushrooms you've picked, you can seek free help at sanitary inspection stations. If you experience any symptoms after eating mushrooms, consult a doctor as soon as possible.
The 32nd Ceramics Festival is approaching
Bolesławiec ceramics have captivated generations with their exquisite craftsmanship and timeless design. Their distinctive cobalt blue decorations are now a recognizable symbol of the city and a brand valued on nearly every continent.
The best opportunity to discover the unique world of ceramics will be the 32nd Bolesławiec Ceramics Festival, which will take place August 19–23. During this time, Bolesławiec will once again become the ceramics capital of Poland. The event will center on the Bolesławiec Market Square, where approximately 100 ceramics producers, including over 40 exhibitors from Bolesławiec and the surrounding area, will showcase their offerings.
Visitors can expect fairs, workshops, numerous attractions, and concerts by music stars. This year's edition will also have a special anniversary character – we are celebrating the 80th anniversary of the return of Poles from the Balkans to Bolesławiec and the 80th anniversary of the "BOLESŁAWIEC" Ceramic Works.
Welcome to Bolesławiec! Before arriving, please review the event map, which will help you navigate the event grounds and indicate free parking and the location of the fair.
More information is available at: https://swietoceramiki.pl/
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