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Gwarki Festival in Tarnowskie Góry

Gwarki is a multi-day festival in Tarnowskie Góry, organised since 1957 and rooted in the town’s mining history. In September, the Market Square, central streets and cultural venues fill with concerts, family activities, fairs and exhibitions. Follow the current programme to explore the festival.

The Gwarki procession

The main tradition is the Sunday Gwarki Procession, a historical pageant moving through the town. Miners, metalworkers, rulers, townspeople and figures from Tarnowskie Góry’s past appear in the parade. In 2024, the procession was added to Poland’s National List of Intangible Cultural Heritage. Its route and timing may change, so check the organiser’s official notice before visiting.

The town’s mining heritage

Gwarki refers to the historic extraction of lead, zinc and silver ores. This heritage includes the Historic Silver Mine and the Black Trout Adit, listed by UNESCO as part of the “Tarnowskie Góry Lead-Silver-Zinc Mine and its Underground Water Management System”. The festival is a good occasion to combine the city programme with a visit to these sites, but check their tickets and opening hours separately.

Programme and planning

Gwarki may include Market Square concerts, family activities, workshops, exhibitions, sports events and food stalls. The 2026 edition is scheduled for 10–13 September, with the procession on Sunday 13 September at 11:00. Check gwarki.tarnowskiegory.pl for dates, performers, registration, tickets and organisational changes. Traffic in the centre may be altered during the festival; arrive early or use public transport.