The Great Orchestra of Christmas Charity (Wielka Orkiestra Świątecznej Pomocy, WOŚP) is one of Poland’s most beloved traditions, bringing communities together to support crucial healthcare initiatives. On 26 January 2025, the 33rd Grand Finale of WOŚP will take place, raising funds for paediatric oncology and haematology. Poznań, a key hub for this event, is hosting a rich programme of activities, culminating in the magical Light to the Sky at the International Poznań Fairgrounds (Międzynarodowe Targi Poznańskie, MTP).
The Story of WOŚP: A Tradition of Giving
The Great Orchestra of Christmas Charity was founded in 1993 by Jerzy Owsiak and has since become a symbol of Polish generosity and community spirit. Each January, volunteers adorned with WOŚP’s red heart stickers collect donations to fund cutting-edge medical equipment for hospitals across the country.
Over its three-decade history, WOŚP has provided vital support to paediatric and adult medical facilities. In 2024, the 32nd finale raised a record-breaking 281.9 million PLN for respiratory care post-pandemic. This year’s focus on cancer treatment for children highlights WOŚP’s enduring commitment to helping the most vulnerable.
Helping each other is the most beautiful thing we can do. WOŚP shows that solidarity and kindness have no boundaries, and together, we can achieve miracles.
Says Jerzy Owsiak.
Poznań: At the Heart of the Orchestra
Poznań is a proud participant in the WOŚP tradition, and the 2025 finale will centre on the International Poznań Fairgrounds (MTP). Highlights of the day include:
- “Count Your Steps Against Diabetes” Run, promoting diabetes awareness and prevention.
- Live auctions, featuring the highly anticipated Golden Hearts (Złote Serduszka).
- Interactive workshops, offering activities for children and adults alike.
The event also features Poznań’s unique four-legged volunteers: golden retrievers. These friendly dogs, accompanied by their handlers, will collect donations at key locations, including the Old Market Square and shopping centres like King Cross Marcelin and Pestka.

Światełko do Nieba: Lighting Up Poznań
The day’s most anticipated moment is the Światełko do Nieba (Light to the Sky), a dazzling event symbolising hope and unity. At 8:00 PM, attendees will gather at the Plac Powszechnej Wystawy Krajowej (Universal National Exhibition Square) within the MTP grounds.
This year, Poznań offers a unique twist: instead of fireworks, participants will illuminate “tytki z glancem” – paper bags adorned with WOŚP’s heart logo and crafted by young patients from the Paediatric Oncology and Haematology Clinic in Poznań. The bags will be lit with torches or lanterns, creating a visually stunning and environmentally friendly display.
Sustainability Meets Charity: The Recyklomat
In addition to its charitable efforts, this year’s WOŚP finale in Poznań promotes sustainability with the introduction of the recyklomat. This innovative recycling machine, developed by the Clean Poland Foundation (Czysta Polska) in partnership with the Poznań Institute of Technology (Łukasiewicz – Poznański Instytut Technologiczny), accepts plastic bottles and cans. Refunds from recycled items are automatically donated to WOŚP.
The recyklomat exemplifies how ecological responsibility and social good can go hand in hand, allowing attendees to support healthcare and the environment simultaneously.
Exciting Auctions
WOŚP’s auctions are a perennial highlight, offering one-of-a-kind items and experiences. Some standout options for 2025 include:
- A private concert by Michał Wiśniewski.
- Dinner with Dorota Wellman and Marta Klepka in Poznań.
- A Lech Poznań jersey autographed by team captain Mikael Ishak.
- A ride in a tram driven by the president of Poznań Public Transport (MPK Poznań).
- A week-long transformation with fitness guru Ewa Chodakowska, including training, relaxation, and healthy eating.
- Tickets to an FC Barcelona match with a visit to their training session, courtesy of Robert Lewandowski.
- A private hot-air balloon flight with Poland’s record-breaking balloon pilot, offering stunning views of western Poland.
- Becoming a character in a Remigiusz Mróz novel, a unique opportunity for literature lovers.
- A personalised day in the mountains with Międzychód County starost Rafał Litke, including scenic hikes and a shared meal.
- Exploring the underground cellars of Poznań’s Bar Association (OIRP) by flashlight, led by a knowledgeable guide.
- Maciej Musiał cleans your home, a quirky and fun offer from the popular Polish actor, to the tune of his favourite playlist.
Bidding takes place online via Allegro, with new items being added daily. These extraordinary experiences not only entertain but also embody the spirit of generosity that defines WOŚP.

Why WOŚP Matters
WOŚP is more than a charity; it’s a celebration of solidarity and a testament to the power of collective action. Each year, funds raised provide life-saving equipment for hospitals. For 2025, these donations will benefit:
- 18 paediatric oncology departments,
- Seven hospices,
- Five neuro-oncology surgical centres,
- Six oncology surgery centres, and
- Four pathology units.
Thanks to WOŚP, countless children in Poznań, Greater Poland, and beyond receive the advanced care they need to fight serious illnesses.
How to Get Involved
Poznań residents and visitors can support WOŚP in many ways. Volunteer opportunities are still available with local teams such as the Poznań University of Technology (Politechnika Poznańska) and the CREO Association (Stowarzyszenie CREO). Donations can be made in person, online, or through virtual collection boxes.

Poznań Joins the Symphony of Hearts
The WOŚP 2025 finale in Poznań is shaping up to be a spectacular celebration of generosity, sustainability, and community. From the eco-friendly recyklomat to the moving Światełko do Nieba, Poznań will once again shine as a beacon of hope and compassion. Together, we can make a difference for Poland’s children.