II Krajna Folk Festival and the III National Folk High School Festival in Radawnica

1 September 2024
TAGI: Krajna Folk Festival 2023 Folk festivals in Poland National Folk High School Festival Radawnica cultural events Polish folk traditions Folk high schools in Poland Greater Poland events 2023 Polish folk music festivals Uniwersytet Ludowy Radawnica Local culture festivals Poland Polish folk arts and crafts Krajna region festivals Folk dance performances Poland Polish regional festivals

On August 31, 2023, Radawnica became the center of tradition, culture, and community during the second edition of the Krajna Folk Festival. This year’s event gathered participants not only from the local area but from all over Poland, making it a day full of colors, music, joy, and traditional elements that united generations. The event was also combined with the III National Folk High School Festival, attracting participants from various regions and promoting the idea of social integration and local initiatives.

A Celebration of Culture and Tradition

The II Krajna Folk Festival is an event that is gaining momentum year by year, becoming a significant part of the region's cultural calendar. The festival was a true feast for the senses – beautiful folk costumes, colorful craft stands, and musical performances attracted both locals and tourists. Attendees could enjoy performances by folk bands showcasing songs and dances from different regions of Poland, as well as try regional delicacies and purchase handmade crafts.

The event was made possible thanks to the support of numerous patrons and partners who contributed to its success. Honorary patrons of the festival included:

Henryk Szopiński, Member of the Polish Parliament,
Marek Woźniak, Marshal of the Greater Poland Voivodeship,
Patryk Wruk, Head of the Złotów County.

Their presence and involvement added prestige to the festival, while local media, including TVP 3 Poznań, TV Asta, and the asta24.pl portal, provided extensive promotion for the event.

Folk High Schools – A Meeting of Tradition and Modernity

In addition to the Krajna Folk Festival, Radawnica also hosted the III National Folk High School Festival, offering an opportunity for representatives of Folk High Schools from across Poland to meet. The mission of these institutions is to provide informal education, support local communities, and promote sustainable development and active participation in social life.

Among the schools that participated were:

West Pomeranian Folk High School,
Kashubian Folk High School,
Ecological Folk High School in Grzybowo,
Folk High School of Artistic Crafts,
Forest Folk High School,
and many other representatives from folk high schools across Poland, who shared their experiences and promoted the idea of lifelong education.

Supported by the National Freedom Institute - Center for Civil Society Development and the National Network of Folk High Schools, participants had the chance to attend numerous workshops, discussion panels, and presentations that enriched their knowledge of culture, traditions, and modern methods of working with local communities.

An Unforgettable Atmosphere and Community Involvement

The festival was marked by an extraordinary atmosphere, full of smiles and joy, thanks to the attendees who gathered in large numbers in Radawnica. Both residents and guests could take advantage of a rich event program: from folk music concerts and craft workshops to exhibitions of local artists.

The festival would not have been possible without the support of numerous sponsors and partners, who enthusiastically contributed to the organization. Partners included:

Local Action Group Krajna Złotowska,
Spółdzielczy Bank Ludowy in Zakrzewo,
Spółdzielczy Bank Ludowy in Złotów,
NewSkin – Aesthetic Cosmetology Studio in Złotów,
ZAMEK Mushroom Farm,
and many other local businesses and institutions that supported the event.

We must also mention the invaluable volunteers who ensured everything ran smoothly and provided friendly assistance at the stands. Additionally, thanks to the Volunteer Fire Department of Radawnica and the Maltese Service of Tarnówka, participants felt safe throughout the event.

Success and Plans for the Future

This year’s edition of the Krajna Folk Festival was a great success. Both the organizers and participants unanimously agree that the event helped promote folk traditions and strengthen community bonds. The organizers would like to thank everyone who contributed to the success of the festival – from patrons and sponsors to participants and numerous volunteers.

The event ended with a promise that the festival would return next year, bringing even more colors, sounds, and smiles. We already invite everyone to Radawnica for the next edition of the Krajna Folk Festival – see you next year!