St. John’s Fair in Krakow 2025: Program, Attractions, and the Magic of Midsummer Night on the Vistula

Imagine the shortest night of the year when the world holds its breath for a moment. The air is filled with the scent of herbs and damp earth, and the last rays of the sun fade on the horizon. This is St. John’s Night (Noc Świętojańska) – a time of magic, fire, water, and ancient rituals, when for a brief moment, the world of legends becomes reality. What if you could experience this extraordinary atmosphere in the heart of historic Krakow? This June 2025, the Czerwieński Boulevard at the foot of Wawel Castle will transform into a vibrant, colorful settlement where ancient traditions will come to life once more. The St. John’s Fair is back!

We invite you on a journey through this unique event. In our complete guide, you will find a detailed program, discover the most interesting attractions, learn the fascinating history of Midsummer customs, and find out how to best plan your visit. Get ready for an unforgettable experience that combines heritage with modern fun.

St. John’s Fair 2025 in a Nutshell

For those who want to get straight to the facts, here is the most important information gathered in one place:

• What? St. John’s Fair 2025 (Jarmark Świętojański)
• When? June 19th (Thursday) – June 29th (Sunday), 2025
• Where? Czerwieński Boulevard, at the foot of Wawel Castle, Krakow
• Admission: Free! This is an open-air event.
• For whom? For entire families, handicraft lovers, folk music fans, and anyone who wants to feel the unique atmosphere of Krakow.

From Pagan Rites to a Krakow Fair

Before the stalls fill with colorful handicrafts and folk melodies float from the stage, it’s worth taking a step back in time. The roots of the St. John’s Fair run much deeper than the history of Krakow itself – all the way back to pagan times. During the summer solstice, our Slavic ancestors celebrated Kupala Night (Noc Kupały) – a joyous festival of water and fire, but also of love, fertility, and vitality. It was a magical time when great bonfires were lit to cleanse people of evil and disease, and jumping over the flames was meant to guarantee prosperity and health. Maidens would weave wreaths from herbs and flowers and then float them on the water to divine their romantic futures. On this night, the brave would also venture into the forest to search for the legendary fern flower, which was said to bring its finder eternal happiness and wealth.

With the advent of Christianity, attempts were made to replace these pagan rites with ceremonies honoring St. John the Baptist. However, the power of the old beliefs was so strong that many customs survived, adapting and evolving into a form of folk festival. Over the years, cities began to organize grand fairs during this period, which became an opportunity not only for trade but also for communal celebration.

Today’s St. John’s Fair, passionately organized by the IMAGO Folk Art Center, is a beautiful tribute to this centuries-old tradition. By referencing these festive rites, it perfectly captures the spirit of reviving Krakow’s local color. Its goal is to promote unique handicrafts, authentic folk culture, and regional craftsmanship – everything that constitutes the rich heritage of our city and the Małopolska region.

Main Attractions of the Fair – What Not to Miss?

The St. John’s Fair is a true kaleidoscope of experiences. As you stroll along the alleys of Czerwieński Boulevard, you will discover something new with every step. To help you navigate this wealth of attractions, we have divided them into several categories.

Artisans’ Treasures: Art with a Soul

The heart of the fair is undoubtedly the stalls, bending under the weight of handmade wonders. This is no place for mass production. Here, every object tells a story and bears the mark of its creator’s hands. Let yourself be carried away on a walk among the stands, where you will find:

• Ceramics: From traditional mugs and bowls painted with folk patterns to modern vessels in form and glaze that will adorn any table.
• Jewelry: Unique necklaces, earrings, and bracelets made of silver, copper, natural stones, and even wood or resin with flowers embedded within.
• Wood and Leather Goods: Carved figurines, practical kitchen accessories, and hand-sewn bags, belts, and wallets that smell of real leather and will last for years.
• Clothing and Textiles: Linen shirts with embroidery referencing Slavic patterns, woolen shawls, as well as bags and accessories created by local designers.

This is the perfect opportunity to buy a unique souvenir from Krakow or a special gift while supporting small, local artists and artisans.

Music Stage on the Vistula: The Sounds of Folk and Energy

An event that references Slavic culture could not take place without the right musical setting. Throughout the fair, the stage will be buzzing with life, hosting well-known and beloved folk, ethnic, and traditional bands. The 2025 program includes stars like the charismatic Prasłowianki, the energetic band Folklezz, and traditional ensembles such as Kapela Fedaków and Cmolaskie Chłopoki. The sounds of violins, accordions, and drums, combined with powerful vocals, will create an unforgettable atmosphere. In the evenings, the concerts will turn into a true music festival, and on Saturday, June 28th, you can’t miss the potańcówka (folk dance party) with the Wesoła Fala Band – it will be the perfect chance to dance under the stars with a view of Wawel Castle!

Workshops and Shows: Become an Artisan for a Day

The St. John’s Fair is not just about watching and buying, but above all, about experiencing! The rich program of workshops is one of the biggest attractions, allowing you to immerse yourself in the world of traditional techniques and create something with your own hands. This year, the organizers have prepared something for everyone:

• For Traditionalists: Take part in workshops on weaving Krakow-style wreaths with Babskie Duo. This is the quintessence of St. John’s Night!
• For Clay Lovers: Watch a pottery wheel demonstration and try your own hand at it under the guidance of Dorota Kouba.
• For Artistic Souls: Discover the technique of wood embroidery with Bure Wióry or create a unique picture from pressed plants.
• For Families with Children: Akademia Popotam invites you to create Midsummer lanterns and paint with plants, while Żywa Pracownia will teach the youngest ones the art of weaving.

This is an extraordinary opportunity to learn something new, spend time creatively, and return home with a souvenir that has personal value.

Tastes of Traditional Poland: A Feast for the Palate

A walk through the fair is sure to whet your appetite, and the organizers are prepared for that too. Forget about typical festival food – here, the flavors of Polish and regional cuisine will reign supreme. At the food stalls, you will find traditional dishes that will warm your heart and stomach. Expect aromatic pierogi, slices of country bread with lard and pickled cucumber, grilled oscypek cheese with cranberry sauce, and hearty soups. You’ll be able to take local treasures home with you: honey from Małopolska apiaries, homemade preserves, juices, as well as regional sweets and drinks that will let you hold on to the taste of the fair for longer.

The Magic of Fire and Midsummer Rituals

The culminating point that most strongly connects the fair with its ancient roots will be events referencing magical rituals. Children can take part in a field game of searching for the fern flower, which is sure to be a great adventure for them. However, the absolute spectacle not to be missed will be the Saturday Mystery of Fire performed by the Mandragora Fire Theatre. When dusk falls, Czerwieński Boulevard will be illuminated by flames in an incredible fire-dancing show. This mesmerizing performance, with Wawel Castle in the background and the murmur of the Vistula River, will be a powerful and symbolic nod to the ancient rituals of lighting Midsummer bonfires. It’s an experience that will stay with you for a long time.

St. John’s Fair 2025 – Detailed Day-by-Day Program

To make the most of your visit to the Fair, it’s worth planning ahead. Below you will find a detailed schedule to help you choose the perfect time to visit. We have divided it into thematic blocks to make it easier for you to navigate the abundance of attractions.

First Weekend (June 19-22): Opening, Concerts, and the Magic of Fire

The fair kicks off with great momentum, offering attractions for the whole family and atmospheric concerts from day one, culminating in the spectacular Mystery of Fire.

• Thursday, June 19th: The fair begins by immediately inviting the youngest visitors to a game of searching for the legendary fern flower. The evening is all about music!
  
  • 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM: Searching for the Fern Flower – field game for children (Akademia Popotam)
  • 12:00 PM – 1:30 PM: Midsummer Lanterns – family workshop (Akademia Popotam)
  • 4:00 PM – 5:00 PM: Concert – Zespół Korale
  • 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM: Concert – Prasłowianki
• Friday, June 20th: The day of the official opening, which will combine music, art, and performance, immersing everyone in a Slavic atmosphere.
  
  • 4:00 PM – 4:30 PM: Official Opening of the Fair
  • 4:30 PM – 5:30 PM: Concert – SWADA
  • 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM: Pottery wheel demonstration and clay workshop (Dorota Kouba)
  • 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM: Slavic Tree Performance (Żywa Pracownia & Żywa Trupa)
  • 8:00 PM – 9:00 PM: Concert – Kapela Fedaków
• Saturday, June 21st: Saturday will be dedicated to the most beautiful Midsummer tradition – wreath weaving. And when darkness falls, the sky will be lit by fire.
  
  • 11:00 AM – 4:30 PM: Krakow-style Flower Wreaths – three workshop sessions (Babskie Duo)
  • 4:00 PM – 5:00 PM: Concert – Kapela Kasi Chodoń
  • 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM: Concert – ZAKUKA
  • 9:15 PM – 10:00 PM: Mystery of Fire – Mandragora Fire Theatre (the evening’s main event!)
• Sunday, June 22nd: A calmer, family-oriented day with art workshops and craft shows, perfect for a lazy Sunday afternoon.
  
  • 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM: Painting with Plants – family workshop (Akademia Popotam)
  • 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM: Concert – Zespół Iglika
  • 3:00 PM – 4:00 PM: Foundry demonstration and workshop (Paweł Kulawiak)
  • 4:00 PM – 5:00 PM: Concert – Skład Niearchaiczny

A Week of Workshops (June 23-27): Discover the Artisan Within

After an intense weekend, the Fair focuses on the art of craftsmanship during the week, offering a series of unique, free workshops (including some aimed at socially excluded individuals) and more evening concerts.

• Monday, June 23rd: 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM: Lace-making workshop
• Tuesday, June 24th: 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM: Wood embroidery workshop
• Wednesday, June 25th: 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM: Pressed plant pictures workshop
• Thursday, June 26th: 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM: Feather decoration workshop
• Friday, June 27th: The week concludes with another round of adult workshops and a powerful folk-rock punch on stage.
  • 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM: Wood Embroidery – workshop for adults (Bure Wióry)
  • 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM: Concert – Cmolaskie Chłopoki
  • 8:00 PM – 9:00 PM: Concert – Folklezz

The Grand Finale (June 28-29): Dancing, Bees, and Last-Minute Shopping

The final weekend of the Fair is a time for dance madness, an encounter with the fascinating world of bees, and one last chance to buy unique handicrafts.

• Saturday, June 28th: A day full of movement and joy, from a dance flash mob to an evening dance party under the stars.
  
  • 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM: Midsummer Weaving – workshop for children (Żywa Pracownia)
  • 2:00 PM – 2:30 PM: Flash Mob – a dance to welcome summer (Michał Kostempski)
  • 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM: Potańcówka (Folk Dance Party) – Wesoła Fala Band
• Sunday, June 29th: A farewell to the Fair in a family atmosphere, with the buzzing of bees in the background and one last concert on stage.
  
  • 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM: Meeting the Bees – workshop and activities for children (Pszczela Akademia)
  • 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM: Concert – Kapela Sopa

Planning a Visit? Combine Tradition with Modern Adventure in the Heart of Krakow!

The Fair on Czerwieński Boulevard is the perfect starting point for further exploration of Krakow. Once you’ve enjoyed the folk atmosphere, taken in the scent of handicrafts, and listened to traditional music, immerse yourself in completely different worlds that await just around the corner!

The Mysteries of Wawel Hill at Escape Room Wawel

You are standing at the foot of Wawel, in a place steeped in history and legends. From the Fair, you gaze upon the majestic castle walls. What if I told you that you could step inside one of its stories? Our Escape Room Wawel, located right next door, will transport you to a world of puzzles, ciphers, and historical mysteries. It is the perfect complement to a day full of Krakow’s legends. Gather your team and see if you can outsmart history and escape in time.

Check available rooms and book your adventure at escaperoomwawel.pl!

Family Fun After the Midsummer Workshops at Pixel Planet

Have the creative workshops at the fair sparked your children’s imagination? Is their appetite for fun only growing? Instead of heading back to the hotel, transport yourselves to a world where art and technology create a magical spectacle together! Pixel Planet is an interactive museum of the future that will delight both young and old explorers. Immerse yourselves in extraordinary light installations, create, and play in an environment that reacts to your every move. It’s an adventure that provides the perfect modern contrast to the traditional fair.

Step into a world of a million lights! Tickets and more information can be found at pixelplanet.pl.

All Attractions in One Place – House of Attractions

If you are looking for even more options or want to plan an entire weekend full of excitement, our House of Attractions is your command center for Krakow entertainment. This is where we gather the best and most exciting experiences in the city. Whether you’re looking for a thrilling escape room challenge or interactive fun for the whole family, you’ll find something for you here.

Discover the full offer and plan the rest of your day with houseofattractions!

Practical Information and Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• How do I get to Czerwieński Boulevard?
  The most convenient way to get here is by public transport (get off at the “Jubilat” or “Wawel” stops) or on foot – it’s just a 10-15 minute walk from the Main Market Square. We advise against driving, as parking in the area is difficult to find.
  
• Can I pay by card on-site?
  Card payments will be possible at larger food stalls and with some artisans. Nevertheless, it’s always a good idea to have some cash with you, especially for smaller vendors and traditional crafts.
  
• Is the Fair accessible for people with disabilities?
  Yes, the event takes place on the open, largely flat, and paved area of the Czerwieński Boulevard, which makes it easy to navigate with a wheelchair. However, please note that it can get crowded during peak hours.
  
• Is it a good place for children?
  Absolutely! The Fair is extremely family-friendly. Dedicated workshops, field games, shows, a large open space, and the proximity of the Wawel Dragon make it the perfect place to spend time with children.
  
• What is the best day to visit?
  It depends on what you’re looking for. If you prefer a calmer atmosphere and want to chat with the artisans at your leisure, choose a weekday (Monday-Thursday). If you love when there’s a lot going on and want to see the main events, like the Mystery of Fire or the dance party, aim for the weekends.
  

Conclusion

The St. John’s Fair is much more than just a market. It is the beating heart of tradition, a meeting place for enthusiasts, and a celebration of the most beautiful season of the year in the magical scenery of Krakow. Whether you come for a concert, a workshop, or just for a walk, you will take a piece of this extraordinary atmosphere with you.

See you in June at the foot of Wawel Castle!