Discover Poznań’s rich cultural tapestry at the Festival of Poznań Traditions, a vibrant celebration spanning from 31 July to 4 August. This annual event brings to life the historical and cultural heritage of Poznań, culminating in the colourful and joyous Bamber Festival. From theatrical performances and fashion shows to children’s workshops and historical parades, there’s something for everyone in this immersive cultural festival.
Kick-off at Biblioteka Raczyńskich
31 July – Culinary Heritage Discussion
The festival began on 31 July at 18:00 with a thought-provoking discussion at Biblioteka Raczyńskich, focusing on Wielkopolska’s culinary heritage. Esteemed guests, including Joanna Ochniak, Marcin Sadowski, Wojciech Lewandowski, and chef Maciej Nowicki, delved into the region’s rich food traditions. This session, moderated by Małgorzata Muraszko of “Gazeta Wyborcza,” was a delightful treat for food enthusiasts and cultural historians alike.
Artistic Expressions on Wzgórze Przemysła
2 August – Urban Sketchers Poland Event
On 2 August at 18:00, join Urban Sketchers Poland on Wzgórze Przemysła for an artistic afternoon. Participants will have the opportunity to paint and sketch Poznań’s historical landmarks, drawing inspiration from the works of Stanisław Wyspiański. This event invites both seasoned artists and novices to capture the beauty of the City Hall and other iconic buildings in the heart of the city.
Fashion and Family Fun at Old Market Square
3 August – Day Full of Activities
Morning Workshops for Children
Saturday, 3 August, is packed with family-friendly activities, starting with a workshop at the Museum of the History of Poznań at 10:30. The “Trzej bracia, dwa koziołki” (Three brothers, two goats) workshop, aimed at children aged 5-9, will explore local legends and unleash the creative spirit of young participants.
Afternoon Performances and Workshops
At 16:00, Teatr Mozaika will present the captivating play “O królu kruków” (About the Crow King) on the Quadro stage, followed by a mini concert at 17:00. At 17:30, children aged 8-12 can participate in the “Taniec Koziołków” (Goats’ dance) dance workshop, where they will create a unique choreography inspired by Poznań’s beloved legend.
Youth Engagement
At 18:30, the stage at Quadro will host “Jesteś u siebie, czyli gdzie?” (You are at home, but where?), an event for young people to share their perspectives on urban spaces and discuss what they envision for their city’s future.
Evening Fashion Show
The highlight of the day will be the fashion show “Architektura mody” (Fashion’s architecture) at 20:00, featuring collections inspired by Poznań’s architecture. The “Present Collection” will showcase contemporary designs, while the “Past & R” Collection will draw inspiration from historical structures like the domki budnicze and the City Hall. This unique blend of fashion and history promises to be a visual feast for attendees.
The Grand Finale: Bamber Festival
4 August – Bamber Parade and Celebrations
The Festival of Poznań Traditions reaches its grand finale on 4 August with the 29th Bamber Festival. Starting at 14:00, the vibrant Bamber Parade will wind its way through the streets of Poznań, beginning at Mostowa Street and passing through Chwaliszewo, Old Market Square, and Plac Kolegiacki, before concluding at the courtyard of the City Hall.
At 15:00, the courtyard will come alive with performances from the Orkiestra Miasta Poznania and the Zespół Pieśni i Tańca Siekieracy. The event will also feature the spectacular show “Z Kolbergiem w Poznaniu,” (With Kolberg in Poznań) alongside a Bamber village setup and engaging activities for children. The festivities will close with a concert by the band Rock&Fire at 18:00.
Understanding the Bamber Festival
The term “Bamber” refers to the descendants of German colonists from Bamberg, Bavaria, who settled in the villages around Poznań in the early 18th century. Invited by Poznań’s authorities to repopulate the war- and plague-ravaged villages, these settlers brought with them a rich cultural heritage. Over time, through integration and shared faith, they assimilated into the local Polish population, contributing significantly to the region’s cultural and agricultural development. Today, the Bambrzy are celebrated as an integral part of Poznań’s diverse heritage, their legacy honoured in events like the Bamber Festival.
Embracing Poznań’s Cultural Heritage
The Festival of Poznań Traditions and Bamber Festival offer a unique opportunity to immerse in Poznań’s intangible cultural heritage. This event showcases the efforts of local institutions and organisations dedicated to preserving and celebrating the city’s rich traditions and customs. Best of all, all events are free to attend, with some children’s activities requiring prior registration. For more details, visit the festival’s Facebook page.
The Festival of Poznań Traditions and Bamber Festival not only celebrate the rich history and cultural heritage of Poznań but also bring the community together in a vibrant, engaging, and educational manner. From young children to adults, everyone can find something to enjoy and learn from these events. This celebration is a testament to Poznań’s ability to honour its past while embracing the present, making it a must-attend for locals and visitors alike.
