The Highland Carnival in Bukowina Tatrzańska has been held since 1973.
A several-day-long folk event takes place in February.
It is started by a colourful procession of horse drawn vehicles, carol singers, dancing groups and people in all types of disguise. In early afternoon, a gigantic traffic jam is formed in Bukowina – the participants of the party stop cars. They wish everyone health and the best of luck and in return they expect to receive a small payment for crossing the village. If you have no change in your pocket, it is better to steer clear of Bukowina on this day.
A spontaneous march through Bukowina ends near the Folk House where carol singers start to perform – the manifestation of colours accompanied by loud sounds of highland music. In the evening, highland robbers’ dance competitions and dance couple competitions are held and the several day long party ends with famous kumoterki races (small sledges once used to carry children to baptism) and skiring, i.e. skiing while being pulled by a horse.
This is a must-see show for lowlanders.
www.bukowinatatrzanska.pl
Bukowina Tatrzańska is a member of the International Federation of Carnival Cities including 100 cities from 52 countries.
Show poland.gov.pl - turystyka on a bigger map
