Krakow's Lajkonik Parade - A Colourful Tradition in the Old Town - Tuesday, 13 June 2023
June 13, 2023
Discover the Lajkonik Parade in Krakow - A Colourful Tradition in the Old Town
Krakow's Lajkonik Parade - A Colourful Tradition in the Old Town
Tuesday, 13 June 2023
The Lajkonik Parade, one of the oldest and most colourful traditions of Krakow, arrives in the Old Town. It's an extraordinary event that attracts crowds of spectators and is on the list of must-do things when visiting Krakow.
A Brief Introduction
The Lajkonik Parade, an event held in the octave of Corpus Christi, is a colourful procession that travels from Zwierzyniec to the Main Market Square to the rhythm of traditional Krakow melodies. This tradition, known for saving Krakow from a Tartar invasion, attracts crowds of tourists and city residents.
Preserving the Tradition
The roots of this tradition reach back to the communities of Zwierzyniec and Półwsie Zwierzynieckie near Krakow, as well as the Norbertine Sisters' monastery. The Lajkonik Parade takes place almost every year, without interruption, even during major political, social, and civilizational transformations.
The New Lajkonik
In 2022, after 35 years, Zbigniew Glonek parted ways with the role of Lajkonik. The role of Lajkonik is now performed by Mariusz Glonek, who has been associated with this rite for many years.
The Lajkonik Parade and Cultural Heritage
In 2014, the Lajkonik Parade was added to the national list of intangible cultural heritage. This entry is the basis for this Krakow tradition to be placed on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
Activities for the Youngest
This year's Lajkonik Parade is accompanied by two competitions for the youngest, "The Most Beautiful Children's Lajkonik Procession" and "My Lajkonik 2023", aimed at children aged 4 to 10.
Join a Krakow ghost tour that reveals the city’s darkest secrets after nightfall. This guided walk through the Old Town combines spooky legends, true crime stories and dark history, told in an engaging, thriller-style narrative by a licensed local guide. If you enjoy chills, mystery and a different side of Krakow, this evening experience is for you. Recommended for participants aged 15 and over.
Avoid the queues and visit the original Schindler’s Factory Museum – one of Krakow’s most important historical sites.With this fast-track ticket, you’ll explore the powerful permanent exhibition Krakow under Nazi Occupation 1939–1945, located in the real factory where Oskar Schindler worked.Discover original rooms, multimedia installations, and the story behind Schindler’s List – all at your own pace.
Step inside Oskar Schindler’s Enamel Factory in Krakow and explore the city’s history during World War II on a guided visit with a licensed guide. During the tour, you will learn about everyday life in occupied Krakow, the tragedy of the Krakow Ghetto, and the true story of a man who saved more than a thousand lives. The presence of a guide allows you to immerse yourself more deeply in the exhibition and better understand the broader historical context and the human stories behind the events.
Duration: 2hLive guideSkip-theLineTransportation included
Explore Krakow on a guided city tour with a licensed local guide. Walk through the city’s most iconic districts, such as the Old Town or Kazimierz, and learn about their history through engaging stories and reliable historical insights. This tour is a perfect introduction to Krakow, offering both famous landmarks and lesser-known places explained by a professional guide who is happy to answer your questions.
Duration: 2h - 3hLive guideSkip-theLineTransportation included
Book a private airport transfer in Krakow and travel comfortably between the city and Krakow John Paul II International Airport (Balice). This door-to-door service offers a reliable and stress-free connection with fixed pricing, flight monitoring, and a private vehicle adjusted to the number of passengers and luggage. A convenient solution for arrivals and departures in Krakow.
Duration: 2h
Live guide
Transportation included
Skip-theLine
