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HomeFood & DrinkBread, Dance, and Tradition: Poznań’s 30th Harvest Festival

Bread, Dance, and Tradition: Poznań’s 30th Harvest Festival

Poznań is gearing up for the 30th Municipal Harvest Festival and the Bread Festival. Those spectacular events celebrating city’s rich agricultural heritage and the hardworking farmers who bring food to our tables will take place on 7th September 2024 at Park Wilsona, offering a day full of festivities, traditions, and local flavours. From colourful parades and traditional folk dances to fun children’s activities and live concerts, this year’s event promises something for everyone. Here’s a preview of what to expect and a glimpse into the traditions behind this much-loved festival.

Poznań’s Harvest Tradition

Dożynki, or the Harvest Festival, is a traditional Polish celebration marking the end of the harvest season. Traditionally, it is a time to give thanks for a bountiful harvest and to honour the hard work of farmers. The festival has deep roots in rural Poland, often celebrated with religious ceremonies, folk dances, and the sharing of food. In Poznań, the event also symbolises the city’s connection to its agricultural surroundings. The historical ties are particularly strong, with many of Poznań’s neighbourhoods like Spławie, Szczepankowo, and Morasko being former villages that were later incorporated into the city.

The Programme: Parades, Music, and More

The 30th Dożynki Miejskie and Święto Chleba will be packed with activities for all ages. The festivities kick off at 12:00 with a traditional Mass at St. Michael the Archangel Church on Stolarska Street. At 13:00, a vibrant harvest parade will make its way to Park Wilsona, setting the stage for an afternoon of celebration.

  • 14:00: The Poligrodzianie Folk Dance Group from Poznań University of Technology will perform a traditional harvest ritual, adding a splash of colour and cultural flair to the proceedings.
  • 15:40-18:30: Attendees can enjoy a series of live performances from local bands like Czysta Energia and Drogi Krajowe, as well as a comedy show by Kabaret Czesuaf, offering entertainment for all tastes.
  • 19:15: The evening will culminate in a concert by Kasia Wilk, a popular Polish singer known for her soulful voice and engaging performances.

A Feast for the Senses: Food, Crafts, and Fun

Aside from the main stage attractions, there will be numerous other activities throughout the day. A dedicated children’s area will feature animations and performances, including the “Poznaj Poznań” (Get to know Poznań) show by Teatr Mozaika. For those interested in history, guided tours of the Park Wilsona shelter and the Poznań Palm House will be available at various times.

Visitors can also look forward to culinary delights, with food stalls showcasing regional products, a demonstration on how to make white sausage (a local delicacy), and a tasting session that’s sure to tantalise your taste buds. Don’t miss the chance to taste the famous “szneka z glancem” – a traditional sweet pastry beloved by locals.

Poznań's Harvest Festival 2023

Celebrating Bread

This year’s Harvest Festival is once again combined with the Bread Festival, organised by the Association of Bakers and the Confectioners Guild of Poznań. The festival aims to honour bread as a staple food and raise awareness of the hard work and skill involved in baking. Various competitions and demonstrations will allow visitors to learn more about the craft of baking and the cultural significance of bread in Polish tradition.

Poznań's Harvest Festival 2023

The Village of Vanishing Professions and Other Attractions

An exciting addition to the event is the “Village of Vanishing Professions,” where visitors can explore traditional crafts and skills that are slowly disappearing in the modern world. It’s a unique opportunity to learn about the old ways of life and the tools and techniques used by artisans of the past

The Village of Vanishing Professions will reveal some secrets of ancient crafts. There will also be stalls with regional products and gastronomy in the park, where local businesses will showcase their offerings. Participants of the event will also be treated to ‘szneki z glancem’ (glazed sweet buns),

reveals Gerard Hajgelman.

A Time to Reflect and Celebrate

Beyond the festivities, Harvest Festival is a time to reflect on the importance of agriculture in our lives and to celebrate the labour that sustains us. In Poznań, agricultural land still makes up a significant portion of the city’s area, with over 7,600 hectares used for farming. This includes fields of grain, potatoes, vegetables, and even flower cultivation. The festival is also a moment for the local farming community to come together, share their experiences, and look ahead to the future.

Poznań's Harvest Festival 2023

Looking Forward to the 30th Harvest Festival

As the event marks its 30th anniversary, it’s clear that the Harvest Festival and the Bread Festival remain a cherished part of Poznań’s cultural calendar. With its mix of traditional customs, modern entertainment, and community spirit, this year’s event promises to be a memorable celebration for all.

Karolina Twardowska
Karolina Twardowskahttp://poznanmagazine.com
Hi there, I'm Karolina! I'm all about three things: travel, art, and food! Catch me wandering around the charming streets of Provence, checking out cool museums, or digging into some delicious poutine. Always curious, I love exploring my city and sharing my finds with PoznańMagazine readers. Come along for the ride as we uncover the hidden gems of Poznań!
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