We’re keeping warm in January with the euphoria of the new year, the Carnival – and carols! This year brings even more concerts than usual – the most fascinating presentation of these beautiful, frequently ancient songs is held at the ICE Kraków Congress Centre with the participation of over a dozen choirs!Three hundred singers, orchestra and an audience of fifteen hundred will make for an incredible atmosphere. And there are also concerts and recitals held as part of the Opera Rara Festival, presenting music ranging from the Baroque to contemporary in an exalted yet playful Carnival atmosphere. And, speaking of fun, there is plenty to be had in the city: enjoy displays of Cracovian nativity scenes set up in public spaces in the Old Town and beyond, join us for the final walk All Around Nativity Scenes, and head to the ice skating rink at Wolnica Square with its accompanying artistic and cultural programme. The finale of the Great Orchestra of Christmas Charity, featuring concerts and raising funds for medical equipment, is also perfect for lifting the mood.
This year marks the centenary of Poland regaining its independence, as well as hosting the ongoing project “Kraków – City of Stanisław Wyspiański”, the recently announced Year of Zbigniew Herbert, and celebrations of the 85th birthday of Krzysztof Penderecki held in Kraków and beyond. Our heroes for 2018 will be some of the world’s leading artists, and of course soldiers who gave their lives for our freedom on battlefields across Europe.
We will celebrate them all!
