News from Kraków

The year 2026 is shaping up to be a breakthrough moment for associations around the world. In the face of geopolitical uncertainty, the rapid development of artificial intelligence, increasing sustainability requirements, and evolving member expectations, these organizations must redefine their role, their ways of operating, and the value they deliver to their communities.

Polish tourism is currently in a phase of dynamic and stable growth, as confirmed by both European data and global industry analyses. The latest World Tourism Barometer prepared by UN Tourism shows that global tourism has not only recovered after the pandemic but, in many regions, is developing faster than before 2020. Against this backdrop, Poland stands out exceptionally positively, ranking among the fastest‑growing tourism markets in the European Union.

For years, Kraków has been one of the most visited cities in Europe. The latest awards in the prestigious Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards Best of the Best Destinations 2026 confirm that the capital of Małopolska not only maintains its strong position, but also strengthens it on the international arena. In this year's edition, Krakow ranked high in three out of six rankings, which may translate into further growth in interest from tourists from around the world. At the same time, it is the only Polish city with such high results.

For years, Kraków has been recognized as a city of sport, tourism, and an active lifestyle. Despite this, the city has lacked an event that would bring together a wide range of products, hands‑on equipment testing, and direct interaction with people from the sports world in one place. This gap is about to be filled.

Wesoła Immersive is a unique place for meetings and the exchange of ideas, where history merges with modern technology and new‑media art. Located amid greenery, away from the city’s hustle and the predictable, closed‑off conference centers, it creates an environment conducive to focus, creativity, and open, substantive dialogue. It is a space designed for people who value not only functionality, but also atmosphere and the quality of experience.

During the Event Industry Forum, held on January 14 at EXPO XXI in Warsaw, it was impossible to overlook the HEJ KRAKÓW stand. The space, created by five Kraków‑based brands—Modern Catering, EXPO Kraków, SPICE for SPACE, SprzętEventowy.pl, and SZOK Event Group—captured attention with its elegant design and meticulous attention to detail. From the very first moments, the stand was vibrant and bustling, attracting large crowds of visitors.

The first half of the year at EXPO Kraków promises to be intense, diverse, and inspiring. The coming months will bring a true explosion of events that connect people with a wide range of passions, needs, and interests. A broad selection of topics and event formats means that professionals seeking development and business networking opportunities, as well as families with children, hobbyists, and enthusiasts of active leisure, will all find something for themselves. The upcoming season encourages everyone to step outside and discover new passions.

Kraków is not only the former capital of Poland, but also a modern center of sophisticated experiences. A city that has been a hub for trade, culture, and art for centuries, today it offers tourists from all over the world tailor-made experiences – from luxury hotels and restaurants, through art and crafts, to a unique atmosphere that cannot be found anywhere else.

The year 2025 was a time of intensive work for Kraków. In line with Mayor Aleksander Miszalski’s program, the local government shifted its focus from large, often oversized projects to smaller tasks – closer to residents. The common denominator of municipal investments became improving quality of life, increasing resilience to climate change, and ensuring real accessibility of public services.

What was 2025 like for Kraków Trade Fairs? Bold, intense, and full of premieres – a year that proved the company not only keeps pace with the industry but sets its rhythm. The result? 20 proprietary events, over 3,000 exhibitors, and 160,000 visitors, as well as more than 60 congresses, conferences, and special events held at EXPO Kraków. Add to that prestigious awards received even 8,000 kilometers from Kraków, confirming the scale and quality of the company’s activities. The past months have clearly strengthened Kraków Trade Fairs’ position as one of the most important event organizers in Central Europe – ready for new challenges.

In 2025, TAURON Arena Kraków once again confirmed its strong position on the international events map and its importance for the city. The offer of the largest sports and entertainment hall in Poland combined great shows, industry events, and activities for residents as part of the Arena of Diversity strategy. Since the beginning of the year, TAURON Arena Kraków has been visited by over 900,000 guests who took part in 340 events.