The 106th anniversary of the Greater Poland Uprising promises a day filled with reflection, education, and celebration in Poznań. The city, central to the uprising’s success, will host a diverse programme to honour the bravery of those who fought for Polish independence in 1918. From morning remembrance ceremonies to lively evening concerts, here’s a detailed look at the day’s schedule and the significance of this historic event.
A Historic Triumph for Polish Independence
The Greater Poland Uprising, beginning on 27 December 1918, was one of Poland’s rare insurrections to achieve its aims. It erupted in the post-World War I chaos when the Treaty of Versailles was still being negotiated, and Polish territories remained under German control.
The spark for the uprising came from the arrival of Ignacy Jan Paderewski in Poznań. A world-renowned pianist and ardent Polish patriot, Paderewski’s presence ignited a wave of nationalism among Poles. His speeches and the public celebrations surrounding his arrival were met with aggression from German soldiers, creating tensions that quickly escalated into open conflict.
On the first day of the uprising, Polish insurgents, many of them veterans of the German army, captured key locations in Poznań, including the German military headquarters and railway station. Within weeks, the movement had spread across the Greater Poland region, bolstered by the support of local communities and meticulously planned military operations.
Despite limited resources, the insurgents succeeded in pushing German forces out of the region. Their efforts ensured that Greater Poland would be incorporated into the newly re-established Polish state under the Treaty of Versailles. The uprising’s success is attributed to the unity and organisational skills of the insurgents, combined with favourable international conditions.
Today, the Greater Poland Uprising symbolises resilience, determination, and the power of collective action, serving as a source of pride for Poznań and the nation.
Full Schedule of Events on 27 December
The commemorative events in Poznań will feature a blend of solemn ceremonies, educational activities, and cultural experiences. Here is the complete schedule for the day:
Morning Programme:
- 11:15 AM: Wreath-laying ceremonies at significant sites, including the graves of General Stanisław Taczak and Colonel Wincenty Wierzejewski at the Cemetery of Distinguished Wielkopolans and memorial plaques dedicated to figures such as Franciszek Ratajczak, the 15th Poznań Lancers Regiment, and Ignacy Jan Paderewski.
Midday:
- 12:30 PM: Mass in honour of the Greater Poland insurgents at Poznań Fara Church, ul. Gołębia 1.
Afternoon Activities:
- 2:00 PM: Guided historical walk, In the Footsteps of the Greater Poland Uprising, starting at the Towarzystwo Wiedzy Powszechnej (TWP), ul. Św. Marcin 69.
- 3:00 PM: Educational events at the TWP: lecture by Dr Alina Kucharska on the leadership of the uprising and workshops for creating insurgent symbols (limited spaces available).
Main Commemoration Ceremony:
- 4:40 PM: Symbolic time marking the start of the uprising. The main ceremony at the Monument to the Greater Poland Insurgents (ul. Wierzbięcice and Królowej Jadwigi) will include patriotic songs performed by the Dopiewo Brass Band, BEL CANTO Choir, and RETRO CAFE Choir and laying of wreaths and official speeches.
Evening Cultural Events:
- 6:30 PM: Concert by Gospel Joy at Plac Wolności.
- 7:45 PM: Performance by singer Kasia Wilk at Plac Wolności.
- 7:00 PM: Marszałek’s Concert, Leć, Orle Biały, at the Aula of Adam Mickiewicz University, featuring the Poznań Boys’ Choir and distinguished musicians.
- 7:00 PM: Patriotic singing event at Plac Kolegiacki, offering an opportunity for communal performance of insurgent and patriotic songs.
Additional Attractions
Greater Poland Uprising Museum:
From 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, the museum on the Old Market Square will offer access to its permanent exhibits and a special display about General Stanisław Taczak. Visitors can explore interactive activities, including live history lessons, educational workshops, and a family-friendly historical game.
A recreated insurgents’ camp will be set up outside the museum, where visitors can observe historical reenactments, military drills, and artefacts such as vintage artillery and field kitchens. At 1:30 PM, a special event will celebrate General Taczak’s 150th birthday with a commemorative cake.
Historical Walks:
At 2:00 PM and 2:15 PM, additional guided tours will explore sites linked to the uprising and the life of General Taczak, led by local historian Jarosław Redliński.
A Celebration of Unity and Freedom
Poznań’s commemorations reflect the spirit of the Greater Poland Uprising: resilience, unity, and a commitment to preserving history. Whether through reflective ceremonies, engaging workshops, or lively concerts, the city invites everyone to celebrate and remember this remarkable chapter in Polish history.
