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Krakow, Poland

Traditions and customs in Krakow

5 customs and traditions in Krakow — what they are, and how to take part without causing offence.

Last updated 2026-08-08

1. Wigilia

Wigilia — Photo: Jacek Malczewski · Public domain · source

The Christmas Eve supper of twelve meatless dishes, begun when the first star appears, with an empty place laid for a stranger.

Best time: 24 December

2. Milk bars (bar mleczny)

Milk bars (bar mleczny) — Photo: Ben Snooks from Melbourne, Australia · CC BY-SA 2.0 · source

Subsidised communist-era canteens still serving cheap traditional food from a counter.

Cost: PLN 15–30 for a full meal

3. Nativity cribs (szopki)

Nativity cribs (szopki) — Photo: user:cancre · CC BY-SA 2.5 · source

Elaborate Kraków cribs built from foil and wood in the shape of the city's landmarks, judged in a December competition.

Best time: First Thursday of December

4. Vodka culture

Vodka culture — Photo: Iptpov · CC BY-SA 4.0 · source

Drunk cold, neat and with food, in rounds with toasts — not mixed.

5. Lajkonik parade

Lajkonik parade — Photo: Jakub Hałun · CC BY 4.0 · source

A costumed rider on a hobby horse parading through the city in a tradition dating to a Tatar raid.

Best time: The Thursday after Corpus Christi

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