Drawing inspiration from the city's most renowned legend, the Great Dragon Weekend stands out as one of Kraków's most distinctive and enjoyable annual events. Featuring two days filled with vibrant pageantry, grand puppetry displays, and family-friendly entertainment, the weekend is a celebration not to be missed. During this festivity, the Kraków Old Town transforms into the Dragon’s Cave.
Events & Activities
During Great Dragon Weekends, Kraków transforms into the Dragon's Cave. The festivities start with a Family Picnic on Saturday at 10 a.m. Both kids and adults can engage in playing with the dragons, rolling dragon eggs, trying archery, visiting the event's sponsors' tents, or taking part in various competitions offering prizes. This year's year will take place under the theme "Dragons from fairy tales, legends, and novels."
The weekend comprises two primary events: an impressive light and sound show on Saturday night, with giant dragons gliding down the Vistula River, followed by a Sunday afternoon parade featuring colorful beasts crafted by children.
Open Air Grand Performance (June 8, 2024)
On Saturday, at 9:45 pm, an awe-inspiring Open Air Grand Performance will commence at the Vistula River's curve near Wawel. The show will feature pyrotechnic displays, captivating light and laser effects, massive water curtains, and enchanting music. The main highlight will be the large flying dragons—up to 82 feet (25 m) long and 40 feet (12 m) tall—brought to life on barges and ships by performers from the Groteska Theater. The Honorary Lodge is situated on Czerwiński Boulevard.
The Great Dragon Parade (June 9, 2024)
The Great Dragon Parade on Sunday will traverse the Market Square streets, featuring a competition for the most exquisite dragon. The parade will start from Planty and move to the Rynek Główny along Grodzka Street. More than 30 vibrant dragons will be brought to life by children, with 22 of them vying for the title of the most beautiful dragon in the parade. These artistic figures are crafted by children, teachers, and caregivers from schools and cultural centers across the country.
Tickets
The event is free and open to the public. However, VIP tickets are available for the Open Air Grand Performance on Saturday night at The Honorary Lodge, located on Czerwiński Boulevard. A one-person ticket costs 200 PLN.
History of the Great Dragon Parade
The tale of Krakow's dragon, once residing in a cave below Wawel Castle and defeated by a clever shoemaker using a sheep carcass filled with sulfur, is familiar to Cracovians of all ages. The shoemaker's prize was the hand of the king's daughter in marriage, and this story is commemorated annually in Krakow through the traditional Dragon Parade.
