Lajkonik parade 2025: Everything you need to know about Krakow's most colourful parade!

As June approaches, Krakow is bustling with activity, and one of the most anticipated events on the calendar is undoubtedly the Lajkonik parade. It is not just a colourful spectacle, but a living tradition that has been captivating crowds for centuries, representing the true quintessence of the Krakow spirit. If you are looking for an unforgettable experience and want to immerse yourself in the history and magic of the city, Lajkonik 2025 is an event you absolutely cannot miss!

Lajkonik 2025: When and Where Will the Magic Take Place?

Mark this date on your calendar: Thursday, 26 June 2025. It was then, in Octave of Corpus Christi, Krakow will come alive with an extraordinary parade. The magic will start already from 12:30 and will last until 21:30, guaranteeing a whole day of unforgettable experiences.

Traditionally, the parade will set off from Zwierzyniec, a picturesque district of Krakow, to culminate in the majestic Main Market Square. Along the way, the procession will visit key points such as Na Stawach Square, historic The Abecadło bookshop and historical Bishop's Palace. The entire tour is a journey through the heart of Krakow, where every corner tells its own story.

A brief history of the Lajkonik: A legend that endures

Where did this unusual tradition come from in the first place? The Lajkonik parade, also known as the Zwierzyniec Horse, has roots going back to the Middle Ages. Legend has it that in 1287 the Tartars approached Krakow, but the heroic rafters from Zwierzyniec, known as the Spears, repulsed the attack. One of them, dressed in the ornate garb of a Tartar khan and riding a conquered horse, rode triumphantly into the city, spreading panic among the remaining invaders and joy among the inhabitants. Since then, a colourful parade has been held every year to commemorate this event.

Today Lajkonik is a rider on an artificial horse, surrounded by a retinue of bearded swordsmen and menacing Tartars. To the rhythm of lively Krakow tunes, he rides through the city, and his blow with a mace is believed to bring good luck for the whole of the following year. This is why so many spectators look forward to this moment - a symbol of good fortune and protection from evil. What's more, the Lajkonik Parade has been inscribed on the National List of Intangible Cultural Heritagewhich only emphasises its unique character and importance for Polish culture. Remember, you will only experience the real Lajkonik and his magical mace once a year!

Detailed Lajkonik 2025 Programme: Don't Miss a Moment!

Planning a full day with the Lajkonik? Great! Here's a detailed schedule to keep you in the centre of events from start to finish:

• 12:30-13:30 - Grand Opening: Waterworks of the City of Krakow and Senatorska The Lajkonik 2025 parade will set off from the headquarters of the Waterworks of the City of Cracow at 1 Senatorska Street. It is here, with many members of the procession employed by the Waterworks, that the magical journey will begin. A 40-strong retinue of swordsmen and Tartars, led by the very Mariusz Glonek (playing the role of Lajkonik), will move slowly down Senatorska Street. The Lajkonik, dancing to the music of the Mlaskot band, will nudge spectators with his mace 'for luck' and collect 'tribute' from neighbouring merchants. Car traffic will be temporarily stopped by the Police to ensure the safety and freedom of the show.
  
• 13:30-14:45 - Scouts at the Norbertine Sisters: Dance, Battles and Children's Joy The next stop on the route of the procession will be the picturesque courtyard of the Convent of the Norbertine Sisters. It is here that children from Krakow's schools and kindergartens, as well as individual spectators, will eagerly await the Lajkonik and his entourage. You will witness the first ceremonial Lajkonik's dance with a flag of swordfish and his bowing to the Prelate of the Norbertine Sisters. There will also be an exciting dancing battle of the swordsmen against the Tartarsas well as group presentations as part of the "For the Most Beautiful Children's Lajkonik Procession" competition and the conclusion of the "My Lajkonik" art competition. This is the ideal place if you are with children - full of fun and authentic joy.
  
• 14:45 - 16:00 - Kosciuszko: Among Residents and Local Corners After leaving the monastery, the Lajkonik procession will head for the T. Kościuszki. The Lajkonik, accompanied by two lance-boys, will be peeping into shops and other establishments, allowing himself to be admired by residents and tourists at close quarters. The procession will move along the roadway of Kościuszki Street, heading towards the junction with Krasiński Avenue. Spectators can follow the pavement on the right-hand side of the street so as not to lose sight of it.
  
• 15:15-15:40 - Meeting with the Flisaki: Short Flis on Rodła Boulevard From Kosciuszko Street the procession will proceed along Dojazdowa Street to Rodła Boulevardwhere there will be an extraordinary meeting with the Krakow rafters. The Lajkonik himself, together with his ensign, will hold a short flis to the Water Police station on the Debnik bank of the Vistula. After disembarking, the procession will return along Dojazdowa Street to T. Kościuszki, continuing its march towards the Smil'y Inn. This is a unique moment that combines land and river traditions.
  
• 15:40-16:00 - Onward march of Kosciuszko The Lajkonik parade continues its march along T. Kościuszki, heading towards the next attractions.
  
• 16:00-17:00 - Rest and Combat: The Abecadło Antiquarian and Smil'y Inn An important point on the route is a visit to Abecadło antiquarian bookshop at 18U T. Kościuszki St.. There, the Lajkonik will honour the 'Celebration of the great literary and reading community' - a great opportunity to see it in a slightly different, more intimate context. The procession will then make its way to a well-deserved rest at the the Smil'y Inn at the Zwierzyniec Horse Square. During this time, viewers will be able to enjoy the ancient Polish-Tatar struggle, presented by the Leszek Galica's Combat Theatre.
  
• 17:05-17:10 - Crossing Intersections: Kościuszki, Zwierzyniecka and Aleja Krasińskiego A brief but significant moment when the Lajkonik's procession crosses the busy junction of Kościuszki and Zwierzyniecka Streets with Krasiński Avenue, heading straight for the heart of the city.
  
• 17:15-18:30 - DH Jubilat and Bow at the Wawel Castle The procession will visit the Jubilat department store and then the Lajkonik will perform a ceremonial bowing with the flag at the crossroads of Zwierzyniecka and Powiśle streets, towards Wawel. This is a symbolic gesture, paying homage to the royal castle. The procession will then march along Zwierzyniecka Street towards Franciszkańska Street. Car traffic will again be temporarily stopped.
  
• 18:30-18:40 - Second Dance with the Ensemble: Under the Cracow Philharmonic Hall At the junction under the Krakow Philharmonic Orchestra swordsmen and Tartars will form a large circle. In its centre, to the sound of ancient melodies, the Lajkonik will perform a second flag dance. It is a spectacular moment where tradition and modernity meet in a dance rhythm.
  
• 18:45-19:00 - Bishop's Palace and Franciscan Street The procession will pass along Franciscan Street (along the pavement on the left) and will visit the Bishop's Palace. This is another important point on the map of Krakow, which gets a special setting thanks to the presence of the Lajkonik. The procession then heads to All Saints' Square.
  
• 19:00-19:30 - Rest in All Saints' Square Another short break for the procession in All Saints' Square. During this time there will be another presentation of ancient weapons performed by the Leszek Galica's Combat Theatre, keeping the audience entertained while they wait.
  
• 19:30-20:00 - Grand Entry to the Main Square! The climax is approaching! The Lajkonik procession will enter Grodzka Street to the Main Market Square. This is the moment everyone is waiting for - the sight of the colourful procession against the backdrop of the Cloth Hall and St Mary's Church is unforgettable.
  
• 20:00-20:40 - Finale in the Main Square: Harp, Toast and Bow to the City The main ceremony will take place on a stage under the Town Hall tower in the Main Square. Mayor of the City of Krakow will present the Lajkonik with his due "tribute", symbolising the citizens' homage to this ancient tradition. Together, they will raise a toast to the prosperity of Krakow's women and men. The Lajkonik will perform his the third and final flag dance, called urbem salutare - bow to the city. The swordsmen and Tartars will once again present their dance, and the adjudication of the competition "For the most beautiful children's Lajkonik procession" will take place.
  
• 20:40-21:30 - Grand Finale: March Around the Market Square and Photos with the Lajkonik After the main ceremonies, the Lajkonik procession will march around the Main Square, giving spectators one last chance to admire this unique procession. This will be followed by the long-awaited meeting and joint photos of the Lajkonik with tourists on the Main Market Square (in cooperation with the Krakow Tourism Alliance). This is an ideal opportunity to immortalise this magical day and take a piece of Krakow tradition with you.
  

Associated events in front of the Town Hall Tower: From one hour 19:00 on a stage under the Town Hall tower will take place artistic performance and presentation of Tatar culture in the making Tatar Buńczuk Dance and Vocal Ensemble. This is a great addition to the main programme, adding even more colour and sound to the evening on the Market Square.

Why is Lajkonik So Important for Krakow? More than Just a Show!

The Lajkonik parade is much more than just a street spectacle. It is a living cultural heritagewhich has shaped Krakow's identity for centuries. It is a symbol of the strength, tradition and steadfastness of a city that was able to fend off invaders. It is thanks to such events that Krakow maintains its unique aura and attracts millions of tourists every year.

The Lajkonik is a kind of live history lesson. The procession, with its colourful costumes of swordsmen and Tartars, takes us back in time, allowing us to feel the atmosphere of medieval Krakow, if only for a moment. The figure of Lajkonik himself, with his banging of the mace for good luck, has become a symbol of good fortune and care for the city. It is an event that integrates residents, evoking a sense of community and pride in local traditions. For tourists, it is a unique opportunity to experience authentic Krakow, off the beaten track but at the same time in the heart of the city. It is testimony to the fact that history does not only live in museums, but is an active part of the city's daily life.

After the Lajkonik Parade: Discover More Krakow Attractions!

After a day full of the excitement, sounds and colours of Lajkonik, you will certainly want to continue your adventure in Krakow. This is a city that never sleeps and offers plenty of attractions for any time of day and for everyone. If you are looking for a place where history meets modern entertainment and tradition goes hand in hand with innovation, be sure to visit our unique spaces.

We invite you to House of Attractions - a true entertainment centre where you will find a variety of experiences under one roof. This is the perfect place to continue the fun after Lajkonik, with friends or family. Whether you are looking for an intellectual challenge or just want to have a good time, at the House of Attractions there is something for everyone!

Among our proposals, we particularly recommend Escape Room Wawel. If the Lajkonik Parade has ignited in you a curiosity for history and a desire to unravel mysteries, this escape room will be the perfect choice for you. Immerse yourself in intriguing puzzles that draw on the rich history of Krakow and Wawel Castle. Visit the escaperoomwawel.co.uk and see if you can unravel the secrets that await you in the heart of the royal city.

And if, after a day full of tradition, you fancy a trip back in time, but this time into the world of games and modern technology, be sure to visit the Pixel Planet. This is a paradise for fans of video games, whether they are classic, retro or the latest blockbuster. Here you'll find consoles, arcade machines and much more to provide hours of great fun. Pixel Planet is the perfect place for everyone - from a nostalgic trip for adults who remember the golden days of slot machines to a modern experience for younger players. It's the perfect way to relax and recharge your energy after a busy day of gaming.

These places are the perfect complement to your visit to Krakow. After immersing yourself in tradition during the Lajkonik Parade, you can move on to a world of historical puzzles or digital entertainment, providing you with a comprehensive experience of Krakow - a city that combines the old and the new in a uniquely fascinating way.

Practical Advice for Lajkonik Audiences 2025

To fully enjoy the 2025 Lajkonik Parade, it is worth bearing in mind a few practical tips:

• Access and parking: On the day of the march, the centre of Krakow will be partially closed or traffic will be very limited. It is best to use public transport. If you have to get there by car, park on the outskirts and change to a tram or bus.
• Comfortable shoes and appropriate clothing: Expect a long day on your feet. The procession moves slowly, but following it requires some stamina. Also remember that June can be hot, so light clothing and headgear is a must.
• Water and snacks: Have a bottle of water with you to hydrate throughout the day. Along the route you will, of course, find shops and restaurants, but it is worth having something to hand.
• Watch out for the crowds and be patient: The Lajkonik is an extremely popular event, so expect a large number of spectators, especially at key points along the route. Be prepared to have to wait or manoeuvre through the crowds at times.
• Cameras and phones: Charge up your equipment for photos and videos! You'll have plenty of opportunities to capture the Lajkonik and his retinue.

The Lajkonik Parade 2025 is a unique opportunity to experience the magic of Krakow in its purest form. It is an event that combines history, tradition and great fun, leaving you with unforgettable memories. Come, see the Lajkonik hit you with a lucky roll and feel the energy of this extraordinary city!

And when you've enjoyed the Lajkonik, don't forget to take a look at our attractions. Krakow is a city full of surprises, and House of Attractions, Escape Room Wawel i Pixel Planet are waiting to provide you with further excitement and unforgettable experiences. Check out what else Krakow has to offer and plan your adventure today!

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

• When is Lajkonik 2025? Lajkonik 2025 will take place on Thursday, 26 June 2025.
  
• Where does the Lajkonik Parade start? The Lajkonik parade starts in front of the headquarters of the City of Krakow Waterworks at 1 Senatorska Street, in the Zwierzyniec district.
  
• Where does the Lajkonik Parade end? The finale of the parade takes place on Krakow's Main Square, on a stage under the Town Hall tower.
  
• Does hitting the Lajkonik's mace really bring good luck? Yes, according to centuries-old Krakow tradition, striking the Lajkonik's mace brings luck and good fortune for the whole of the following year. This is why so many spectators look forward to this moment!
  
• Is there an admission fee for the Lajkonik? No, the Lajkonik Parade is an open and free event, open to all residents and tourists.