Every crib must feature elements of Kraków’s architecture, and creators often spend the entire year building them out of vibrant, multicolored tinfoil.
Polish carols are among the most beautiful in the world, and Kraków’s historic basilicas offer incredible acoustics for these festive performances.
This festival breathes life back into forgotten operatic masterpieces, which are often performed for the first time in centuries.
Although Kraków is far from the sea, it hosts one of the largest and oldest sea shanty festivals in Europe.
The tradition of costume balls in Kraków’s palaces dates back centuries, turning the city into a charming, Polish version of Venice.
Concerts take place not only in churches but even 100 meters underground in the Wieliczka Salt Mine.
A traditional souvenir from this Easter fair is the “Tree of Life”—small bird figurines on springs that are said to bring good luck for the spring.
Travel back in time to see medieval knight battles and taste traditional Slavic dishes cooked over open fires.
One of the few marathons in the world where the route leads directly through the heart of a UNESCO-listed Old Town.
Instead of red carpets, this festival focuses on independent cinema with screenings held on rooftops and small barges on the Vistula River.
A paradise for collectors where you can get unique sketches from artists who work for giants like Marvel or DC.
Hollywood composers often conduct the orchestra themselves, while the music is perfectly synced with a massive screen in the Tauron Arena.
For one night only, you can explore underground vaults and conservation workshops that are strictly closed to the public during the rest of the year.
Exhibitions take place in unusual locations like old warehouses or private apartments, creating a unique artistic map of the city.
Giant, helium-filled dragons up to 25 meters long “swim” through the night air over the Vistula River, accompanied by fireworks and music.
The tradition of floating wreaths on the river has pagan roots, and today it’s celebrated with major concerts scattered across several city stages.
A hobby-horse rider playfully strikes bystanders with his mace—legend says a light tap brings good luck for the entire year.
The “Shalom on Szeroka” finale concert lasts 7 hours and turns the Kazimierz district into the world’s largest stage for klezmer music.
The Main Market Square becomes a stage without barriers, where stilt walkers and fire shows invite passersby to join the fun.
The concerts take place in the famous “Piwnica pod Baranami,” where you can soak up the jazz atmosphere in a historic cellar with a glass of wine.
The only chance to try Polish dumplings with unique fillings like salmon, exotic fruits, or even chocolate.
A great place to try unique “St. Hyacinth’s pierogi” and buy traditional handcrafted goods from the Dominican monks.
One of the oldest festivals in Poland, which has hosted masters like Krzysztof Penderecki and Ennio Morricone.
This festival blends classical music with electronica, often using raw, industrial factory halls as concert venues.
The only event of its kind in the world—hundreds of dachshunds dressed as kings, dragons, or ballerinas march proudly to the City Hall.
The best spot to taste rare meads and see what a beekeeper’s work looks like right in the heart of the city.
Famous for “surprise concerts,” where the location and the performer are kept a secret until the very last minute.
As a UNESCO City of Literature, Kraków hosts Nobel Prize winners and world-renowned authors for a week of literary celebration.
The finish line is located inside the darkened Tauron Arena with spectacular lighting and loud music, giving runners an incredible energy boost.
The oldest jazz festival in Europe, started when jazz was banned in Poland and played secretly in private apartments.
More than just lectures, this is a festival of ideas accompanied by modern art exhibitions and concerts at the ICE Congress Centre.
Rated by travel magazines as one of the best in Europe due to its authentic atmosphere and traditional crafts.
The most beautiful nativity scenes are moved to a museum, with details so precise that creators often use tweezers and magnifying glasses to build them.
Kraków’s craziest race—you’re more likely to see runners dressed as dinosaurs, Roman legions, or fairy tale characters than in actual sports gear.