Spring Fairs at Mały Rynek
Spring in the center of Kraków will begin with nearly three weeks of celebrations dedicated to crafts and tradition at Mały Rynek. From 19–29 March, the St. Joseph’s Fair – honoring the patron saint of Kraków – will take place, followed seamlessly by the Easter Fair scheduled for 30 March – 6 April. These are two separate events, each with its own symbolism and program, which together restore the historical rhythm of merchant and patronal festivities in the heart of the Old Town.
St. Joseph’s Fair – a celebration of craft and labor
The first part of the event refers to 19 March, the feast day of St. Joseph – patron saint of craftsmen and guardian of workshop labor. The fair focuses on the ethos of creation, quality workmanship, and the intergenerational transmission of skills.
“For centuries, Kraków has been a city of workshops, guilds, and markets. We want to remind people that craftsmanship is not only part of history, but a living element of the modern city. St. Joseph’s Fair is a celebration of skilled hands, knowledge passed down through generations, and the encounter between creators and people who want to understand where the things they use come from,”
says Michał Czerski, president of IMAGO Folk Art Center.
The heart of the fair will be a carefully curated selection of handicrafts and artistic crafts. About 70% of the assortment will consist of original handcrafted works – including jewelry, ceramics, embroidery, lace, textiles, and traditional folk toys. The remaining part will be complemented by selective gastronomic offerings.
The artistic program will include concerts and performances by groups referencing the musical traditions of Kraków and Małopolska. The stage will feature, among others: Teatr Złoty Róg with Kapela Kasi Chodoń, the Youth Song and Dance Ensemble “Małe Słowianki”, as well as groups reinterpreting traditional music in contemporary forms.
An integral part of the event will also be workshops and craft demonstrations in the form of a “live workshop”, where visitors will be able to observe artists at work and try their hand at selected handicraft techniques.
Discount for residents with the Kraków Card
Organizers have also prepared an offer targeted at city residents. Holders of the Kraków Card will receive a 30% discount on food and grocery products available during the fair.
“We want this event to be created not only for tourists but above all for residents. The fair is meant to be a place where Kraków’s citizens stop by after work, meet friends, and feel that this is part of their city and its traditions,”
emphasizes Michał Czerski.
Easter Fair – tradition and spring symbolism
After the conclusion of St. Joseph’s Fair, the event will smoothly transition into the Easter Fair, held from 30 March to 6 April. This part of the program will put particular emphasis on the symbolism of spring and customs related to the Easter season.
The stalls will feature Easter palms, hand-decorated eggs, holiday decorations, ceramics, wooden products, textiles, and ornaments inspired by folk tradition. The workshop program will include making Easter palms, baskets, and spring decorations.
“First the celebration of craft and labor, then a time of spring renewal and preparation for Easter. These two fairs form a natural story about the city’s traditions and its seasonal rhythm,”
says Michał Czerski.
Emaus Trees – a symbol of Kraków’s spring
From the beginning of the event, emaus trees will be an important element of the scenery, placed in the central part of Mały Rynek. These are among the most characteristic symbols of Kraków’s spring traditions, referencing old “trees of life” once sold during church fairs and markets.
The symbolism of the emaus tree is tied to the rebirth of nature and ancient folk beliefs. In Kraków’s culture, it has long been part of spring customs and city celebrations associated with the Easter period.
IMAGO Folk Art Center also supports the emaus tree competition organized by the Museum of Kraków, which aims to preserve and popularize this unique tradition.
Craft at the heart of the city
The events are organized with respect for the historical character of Mały Rynek and the standards of holding events within the Old Town. A cohesive visual identity inspired by folk motifs and spring-themed decorations will highlight the patronal and festive character of the fairs.
The spring fairs at Mały Rynek open the season of events in Kraków’s city center, creating a space where residents and tourists can engage with authentic craftsmanship, music, and the city’s living traditions. This is another edition of initiatives by IMAGO Folk Art Center, which for years has organized events in Kraków promoting craftsmanship, folk culture, and artistic creativity in public spaces.
More information about the individual events can be found at: www.imagokrakow.pl