Tatra Wici

In July and August, on the territory of Powiatu Tatrzanskiego a series of outdoor parties will take place under the name 'Tatra Wici' ('Tatra Meeting'). The event will involve a presentation of the culture and art of the Podhala region in a modern way. Folk artists, concerts, contests, and many other attractions will take place!

when - Throughout July and August
where - Zakopane
more info - click here

VI International Festival of Organ Music

Traditionally, on the first Saturday of vacation the inaugural concert of the Organ Festival takes place in the Church of the Holy Family on Krupowki Street. Although this event is fairly new, it’s already become one of the most important cultural events in Zakopane during the summer. And so organ music, as played by first-class artists from Poland and abroad, will be filling the air every weekend evening until the 17th of August, when the Organ Festival will pass its torch to the XXXIX International Festival of Mountain Folklore. The concerts will feature distinguished international and Polish organists from many cities, playing both famous pieces as well as lesser known, by many an esteemed composer.

when - 24th June until 17th August
where - Church of the Holy Family, ul. Krupowki 1
more info - click here

XXXIX International Festival of Mountain Folklore

The International Festival of Mountain Folklore will take place for the thirty-ninth time this year. Like every year, at Dolna Rownia Krupowa a festival village will spring up, gathered around a great tent. Several dozen European groups will arrive at the Tatras, who will compete in a contest for gold, silver, and bronze Ciupagas (traditional highlander axes) in three categories: authentic groups, stylized groups, and groups presenting folklore as an artistic study. The Folklore Festival is the perfect opportunity to familiarize yourself with the culture, traditions, and folklore of the Highlander people from the many mountainous areas of Europe and the world, to notice the similarities and differences in their dances, music, and dress, and to even learn some dances, try some regional dishes, take part in folklore concerts, and of course, to party it up, Highlander style! For years as part of the festival there have been numerous complimentary events. The Folk Art Bazaar – at which folk artists present their handmade regional craftwork; Podhale Driving Championships; the National Days – during which you can sample many regional dishes and try your skills at traditional dances; and Guide Days – during which trips with a guide are organized to the most popular peaks of the Polish and Slovakian Tatras. During this time the Open Workshops of Zakopane Artisits invite you to get to know their creative process and works as well.

when - 17th until 28th August
where - Rownia Krupowa, Zakopane
more info - click here

MTB Downhill Harenda Grand Prix

Harenda Ski and Recreation Centre will be hosting the open mountain biking race MTB Downhill Harenda Grand Prix on the 18th and 19th of August. The race is a chance to watch some of Poland's best downhill mountain bikers race over the brutal Tatra mountain paths. Or, for the more adventurous spirits, one can even enter the open race in a chance to compete for several cash prizes. Be warned however, as all entrants must have proof of insurance - not a good sign. But if your preferred spot is in the audience rather than the track, you can watch the opening runs between noon and 6 pm on the 18th and 9 am and 11:45 am on the 19th, with qualifying races starting at noon, and the finals starting at 3 pm on the 19th. But the events aren't over with the awards ceremony at 5 pm. The celebrations continue with a concert by the band K2 at 5:30 pm, and an afterparty at Ampstrong Club from 10 pm until the early hours, featuring several DJs and the German post-rock band Dadajama.

when - 18th and 19th August
where - Harenda, ul. Harenda 63
more info - click here

FIS Grand Prix in Ski Jumping

Ski jumping in August? That’s right! In Zakopane, the winter sport still reigns supreme - even if artificial snow is required to make lift off possible in the summer sun. The teams will arrive on the 22nd August, and after some last minute practice during the day of the 23rd, qualification rounds will begin in the evening at 20:00. The competition begins in earnest on the 24th with the best of the best taking to the sky once more on the 25th. If you've ever wanted to see these crazy athletes in action, now's your chance!

when - 23rd to 25th August
where - HS-134, Ski-jumping hill
more info - click here