The long May weekend in Poznań is more than just a few days off – it’s a deeply rooted cultural moment, when springtime leisure meets historical tradition. With events honouring Polish identity and a city full of things to do, it’s a season many locals look forward to all year.
A Trio of Meaningful Days
Every year, the long May weekend in Poznań begins with Labour Day (1 May) – a public holiday in Poland and many other countries. It has its origins in the 1886 workers’ protest in Chicago, when thousands demanded an eight-hour workday. The Polish version of this holiday has been celebrated since 1890, and although today it is more recreational than political, it still honours the efforts of workers across generations.
Flag Day (2 May), established in 2004, is a day for Poles to proudly display the national colours – white and red – and reflect on national unity. It sits quietly between the more ceremonial dates, but its presence is no less meaningful.
The long May weekend in Poznań culminates on 3 May, with Constitution Day – a national holiday commemorating the 1791 Constitution, the first in Europe and second in the world after the United States. Passed by the Polish–Lithuanian Commonwealth, it remains a powerful symbol of democratic values and national resilience.
Where to Go and What to Do: 1–4 May 2025
While history is at the heart of the long May weekend in Poznań, it’s equally a time for gathering with friends, reconnecting with nature, and enjoying the first warm days of spring. Whether it’s barbecuing by the river, cycling through forest trails, or riding nostalgic trams, Poznań offers something for everyone over this extended weekend.
From family-friendly festivals to underground tours and lakeside concerts, the long May weekend in Poznań has never looked so full of possibilities.
Ride into the Past with Historic Trams and Buses
Throughout the long May weekend, MPK Poznań is operating historic tram Line “0” and bus Lines 100 and 104. These vintage vehicles – including iconic Ikarus buses and the rare PN3+SN3 tram from Kraków – offer passengers a chance to travel not just across the city, but also through time.
- Dates: 1–4 May
- Times: From around 10:00
- Admission: Standard MPK fare
- Highlight: The Kraków tram will appear only on 4 May
Each day, a different set of historic vehicles will run, bringing the city’s transport history back to life.
Announced MPK Poznań.
Nature and Fire: Responsible Forest Picnics
Poznanians love spending the long May weekend outdoors – especially in nearby forests like Strzeszynek, Rusałka, and Kiekrz. But the Zakład Lasów Poznańskich reminds us: enjoy nature, but respect it.
- Key rules: Use only designated fire pits, take your rubbish with you, avoid loud noises and stay on marked paths
- Best spots: Park Szelągowski, Wartostrada, Szachty, Strzeszynek, Kiekrz
Let’s enjoy the forest with our heads and our hearts – it’s a home to many animals and plants.
Reads the official reminder from Poznań’s forest authority.
Make Your Own Crown at Brama Poznania
This year’s long May weekend in Poznań also marks 1000 years since the coronation of Bolesław Chrobry, Poland’s first king. Brama Poznania invites families to participate in medieval-themed workshops, craft their own royal crowns, and take photos on a wooden eco-throne.
- Dates: 1–4 May
- Time: From 11:00
- Admission: Free
- Location: ul. Gdańska 2
Activities include screen printing, medieval costume fitting, calligraphy sessions, and storytelling inspired by early Piast legends.
Concerts at Rusałka: Music Meets Nature
On 1 May, the lakeside at Rusałka becomes Poznań’s open-air concert hall. Expect dreamy indie sounds from Patrick the Pan, energetic rock from Terrific Sunday, and more throughout the evening.
- Time: From 18:00
- Admission: Free
- Location: ul. Golęcińska 27
Pack a picnic or grab something from a food truck, find a spot by the water, and enjoy live music as the sun sets.
Visit the Zoo the Scenic Way
If you’re planning a family day at the New Zoo, make the journey part of the fun. Take the Maltanka Park Railway, a narrow-gauge train that runs from Rondo Śródka to the zoo entrance.
- Train runs: Every 30 minutes from 10:00 to 19:00
- Tickets: From 10 PLN
- Bus alternative: Line 104 (approx. every 40 minutes)
Local History and Hidden Spaces
- Schron Pasjonatów Podziemi: Over 1000 artefacts from wartime Poznań will be on display (1–3 May, 11:00–19:00, free, ul. Kościelna 50)
- Grunwald Walking Tour: Join Łakomy Tour on 1 May at 11:00 to explore forgotten corners and historical sites (free)
- Palmiarnia Poznańska: Don’t miss the carnivorous plant exhibition, with entry from 15 PLN (ul. Matejki 18)
Evening with Polish Classics
Round out the first night of the long May weekend in Poznań with a concert celebrating beloved Polish ballads. Taking place at Klub Pod Papugami, the show features reinterpretations of songs by Anna Jantar, Zbigniew Wodecki, and Wojciech Młynarski.
- Date: 1 May
- Time: 19:00–22:00
- Tickets: 50 PLN
- Location: ul. Dominikańska 9
A Time to Celebrate, Reflect and Reconnect
The long May weekend in Poznań stands at the crossroads of joy and history. It brings together families, friends, and strangers through concerts, bonfires, exhibitions, and shared stories. Whether you’re riding a vintage tram or making a crown for someone you love, it’s a weekend that captures the very spirit of Polish resilience and renewal.
