December 2025 in Zakopane promises to be exceptionally busy and atmospheric. The town at the foot of Giewont has prepared a range of events that will bring residents and visitors into the Christmas mood – from markets and concerts to sports attractions in the open air. Check what will be happening in Zakopane in the last month of the year and plan your winter stay in the Tatras in advance.
Evening at Czerwony Dwór – remembering Henryk Mikołaj Górecki
On 1 December, a cosy meeting dedicated to Henryk Mikołaj Górecki will take place at the Czerwony Dwór villa. The composer’s work has resonated in the Podhale region for many years. The guest and host of the evening will be Joanna Wnuk-Nazarowa, who will share her memories of the composer on the 15th anniversary of his death.
This is an opportunity to listen, in the atmospheric interiors of the historic villa, to stories about the artist’s life and work and about his ties with the region. The meeting will begin at 6:00 p.m., and admission is free, so everyone interested in culture and music can take part.
Tenderness, Lightness, Charm – a musical evening full of emotion
On 5 December, an exceptional concert is planned at Stacja Kultura Zakopane, during which the audience will immerse themselves in subtle sounds and atmospheric musical stories. Under the title “Tenderness, Lightness, Charm”, Agata Kuliś and Adam Jarzmik will perform – a duo that can create an atmosphere of closeness and artistic freedom.
Agata Kuliś, a vocalist with an exceptionally warm tone of voice, has been performing on international stages for years and works on music that combines classic R’n’B and smooth jazz. Her sensitivity and stage elegance make every concert feel like a personal meeting with the audience. Accompanying her will be pianist and composer Adam Jarzmik, known for creating emotional arrangements and spacious jazz. His experience and ability to build musical stories perfectly complement the singer’s style.
The evening at Stacja Kultura will be an opportunity to listen to the artists in a cosy, friendly setting that encourages focus and musical immersion. The concert will begin at 7:00 p.m., and admission is free, which makes the event a great idea for a December evening in Zakopane. It’s a meeting that will surely delight fans of jazz, soul and subtle, emotional sounds.
Santa Claus 3×3 Basketball Tournament at the MOSiR hall
The evening of 5 December in Zakopane will be filled with sporting emotions. At the MOSiR sports hall on Chramcówki Street, the Santa Claus 3×3 Basketball Tournament will take place, starting at 8:00 p.m. It’s a proposal for everyone who enjoys spending time actively, values fair play competition and a good atmosphere on the court.
The tournament will be a great opportunity to meet friends in a sports setting, test yourself against other teams and feel the real climate of basketball in the dynamic 3×3 format. The organisers encourage teams to register now, as the number of places is limited. Registrations and questions regarding the competition are accepted until 2 December via the organiser’s email address. It’s the perfect idea for a Santa Claus evening for those who choose sport and good energy instead of staying at home.
25th Tatra Economic Forum – the power of cooperation in Podhale
On 5 December, the jubilee 25th Tatra Economic Forum will be held at the Belvedere Hotel – one of the most important meetings of local entrepreneurs, local government representatives and everyone who cares about the development of Podhale. This year’s edition will be held under the slogan “Wild Protein”, whose symbolism refers to nature, which builds its durability through cooperation. The organisers emphasise that similar strength can be found in an economy based on partnership and mutual support.
In the first part of the Forum, participants will talk about cooperation as the foundation of the region’s development. Discussions will concern building trust, the role of business organisations and the way sharing knowledge affects the local economic ecosystem. It will also be a moment to honour young talents – the “Help on the Peaks” scholarships will traditionally be awarded, and the meeting will be enriched by a performance of the Zakopane Singing Academy.
The second part of the event will focus on corporate social responsibility, which – as the organisers stress – is a key element of a healthy and future-oriented economy. This block will address in particular the following topics:
- relations between entrepreneurs and the local community
- cooperation in support of the excluded
- human rights, ethics and transparency of actions
- volunteering and social initiatives
- activities by companies that support the nature and culture of Podhale
The discussions aim to show that responsibility in business is not a cost, but an investment in the future of the entire region. The Forum will run from 8:30 a.m. to 1:15 p.m., and participation is free. It’s an excellent opportunity to listen to inspiring talks, meet new cooperation partners and look at the economy of Podhale from a broader, multidimensional perspective.
Final Gala of the Photography Contest and the presentation “Family Photo Archives”
On 5 December, the final gala of the photography contest will take place at Stacja Kultura – Mediateka, combined with a presentation by Ewa Pasternak, an archivist and artist working on the protection of home photo collections. Between 3:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m., participants will learn practical ways to store and protect family photographs and discover how to create and organise their own archives.
During the event, it will also be possible to purchase an archival set consisting of an acid-free box, sleeves and gloves. The meeting is held under the Honorary Patronage of the Marshal of the Małopolska Region and the Tatra District Governor, and is a good opportunity to meet the creators of the prize-winning works and gain knowledge useful for preserving family keepsakes.
Bethlehem Light of Peace 2025 in Zakopane – creating peace together
In December, the Bethlehem Light of Peace will once again reach Zakopane – a symbol of hope and reconciliation that scouts bring every year from the Nativity Grotto through successive European countries. This year’s slogan “Creating Peace Together” is a reminder that building goodness begins in everyday relationships, and every, even the smallest action, matters. Scouts from the Polish Scouting and Guiding Association (ZHP) will once again pass the flame to the residents of Podhale, inviting them to share in this special moment.
Bethlehem ZHP Rally – 5–7 December
Before the flame reaches Zakopane, the Bethlehem ZHP Rally will take place – a central nationwide event which this year will last from 5 to 7 December. During the rally, Polish scouts will receive the Light from Slovak scouts and begin its journey across the entire country. The rally is not only about ceremonies, but also workshops, conversations about values and meetings of different generations of scouts. Participants prepare there to pass on the Light further and to play the role of peace ambassadors in their local communities.
During the Rally, the following topics are discussed:
- the importance of peace in everyday life
- responsibility for the community and local environment
- working with young people and education about values
- service and volunteering
- the history and idea of the Bethlehem Light of Peace
It is from there that the scouts set off on their route to bring the flame to towns all over Poland, including the community of Zakopane.
Passing the Bethlehem Light of Peace in Zakopane – 17 December 2025, square in front of the Old Church on Krupówki
The meeting in Zakopane will be open to everyone. In the city’s winter scenery, participants will receive the flame and will be able to take it home – in lanterns, candles or special lamps prepared by the scouts.
Programme of the event:
- 5:00 p.m. – welcome and a story from the scouts about the idea of the Bethlehem Light of Peace
- 5:15 p.m. – official passing of the Light to the city authorities and institutions of Zakopane
- 5:30 p.m. – carol singing with the scouts
- 6:00 p.m. – opportunity for residents and tourists to receive the Light individually
The passing of the Light in Zakopane is a moment of reflection and focus, but also a joyful meeting full of festive closeness. It’s worth coming with your family, bringing a lantern and inviting the symbol of peace into your home – a symbol that has been uniting people for years regardless of age, origin or beliefs.
If you like, I can also prepare a shorter version for social media or a teaser version for the homepage.
Zakopane Santa Claus Day with Radio Alex – lighting the Christmas tree together
On 6 December on Krupówki, right next to the Oczko Wodne pond, residents and tourists will jointly start the festive season during the City Santa Claus Day organised by the City of Zakopane and Radio Alex. This year’s meeting will last from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. and will fill the centre of Zakopane with music, Christmas sounds and a special atmosphere that has made it one of the most family-friendly December events for years.
The programme includes a warm welcome for Santa Claus and meetings with children, during which the youngest will be able to record their own Christmas wishes to be broadcast later on Radio Alex. There will be an outdoor radio studio, gifts and highlander carols performed by the Małe Klimki band, further emphasising the Podhale character of the event. A special mood will also be created by the concert of Anna Stasińska-Rybka with her band, which will precede the most important moment of the day.
The culmination of the Santa Claus Day will be the ceremonial lighting of the city Christmas tree. It is a symbolic moment that attracts crowds every year and officially opens the Christmas magic season in Zakopane. The event is free and aimed mainly at families, but anyone who enjoys the festive atmosphere will feel at home here.
It is worth mentioning that the Santa Claus Day is also part of a broader programme of December attractions. Two accompanying events are:
- 5 December – Santa Claus “Threes” 3×3 Basketball Tournament at the MOSiR hall on Chramcówki Street
- 11 December – Christmas workshops “Angels, baubles and gingerbread – creating Christmas together” at the Municipal Public Library on Zborowskiego 1 Street
Thanks to these initiatives, December in Zakopane promises to be truly exceptional – full of music, family meetings and shared fun. If you want to feel the atmosphere of the coming holidays, this is the perfect place to start celebrating.
Santa Claus Day on Gubałówka 2025 – winter magic at the summit
On 6 December, Gubałówka will turn into a festive space full of fun and winter attractions. From 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., children and adults will be able to take part in an event combining the family atmosphere of Santa Claus Day with an exceptional view of the Tatras.
The programme will include, among others:
- a meeting with Santa Claus and the opportunity to take souvenir photos
- Elf Show and all-day animations for children
- fun with the Wheel of Christmas Challenges
- a fire walk at the summit in the afternoon
- grand final Fire Show at 6:00 p.m.
- winter Land of Light with illuminations and decorations
This event has for years attracted families who want to spend Santa Claus Day outdoors, in a place full of festive glow and mountain atmosphere. On that day, Gubałówka becomes one of the most magical spots in winter Zakopane.
Santa Claus Day 2025 at Zakopane Thermal Baths – a day full of attractions for the whole family
On 7 December, Zakopane Thermal Baths will invite children and adults to a joyful Santa Claus Day, which will start at 10:00 a.m. and continue into the afternoon. It is one of the most family-friendly events at the beginning of winter, and the pools, slides and warm water will provide a perfect backdrop for celebrating together. On this day, children up to the age of 16 can enter the Baths for a symbolic one złoty, while others will benefit from a promotional ticket. Thanks to this, everyone can afford a day full of relaxation and fun.
The Baths have prepared many attractions to ensure the youngest will spend their time actively and in a festive mood. Throughout the day, the mascot Termuś and Santa Claus will appear on the premises, with competitions, games and animations running around them. An inflatable obstacle course and water zorbing balls will make sure that even more active children will not be bored. Young participants can also look forward to face painting, synthetic braids and sweet treats. There will also be gifts that Santa has prepared specifically for this occasion.
The schedule of the event is as follows:
- 10:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. – meetings with Termuś and Santa Claus
- 10:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m. – inflatable obstacle course
- 10:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m. – water zorbing balls
- 10:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. – games and activities with animators
- 10:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. – competitions with prizes, face painting, synthetic braids and sweet treats
The attractions will run while supplies last, and the organisers reserve the right to minor programme changes depending on conditions and the number of participants. The entire event is held under the honorary patronage of the Mayor of Zakopane.
Santa Claus Day at Zakopane Thermal Baths is a great proposal for families who want to spend a winter weekend together, combining the festive mood with water fun. It is a day full of laughter, movement and surprises – perfect for starting December in a good mood. If you are planning a family trip or a short stay in Zakopane, this is an event worth putting on your must-see list.
History over coffee – mountain shelters then and now
On 10 December, another meeting from the “History over coffee” series will be held at the newly opened café in the main building of the Tatra Museum. This extremely intimate event, led by Wojciech Szatkowski, will be devoted to the history of mountain shelters – places that for more than a century have provided refuge, a rest stop and a meeting point for hikers visiting the Tatras and other mountain ranges.
During the meeting, participants will hear stories about former and contemporary shelters in the Tatras, the Beskids and the Bieszczady Mountains. The talk will focus on their development, changes in architecture and function, and what a mountain shelter is today – both for tourists and for mountain culture. It is an excellent opportunity to listen to stories full of passion, discover lesser-known facts and look at familiar places from a completely different perspective.
The meeting will begin at 4:00 p.m. and last until 7:00 p.m. Admission is free, and the atmosphere of the museum café itself encourages relaxed conversation and immersion in stories about the mountains. It is a proposal not only for fans of history and mountaineering, but for all who enjoy discovering the Tatras with a cup of good coffee.
Zakopane Christmas Market 2025 – a festive story on Niepodległości Square
From 12 December 2025, the centre of Zakopane will once again be filled with the smell of gingerbread, the glow of lights and the buzz of winter strolls. Niepodległości Square will turn into an atmospheric Christmas town that will last until 11 January 2026. This year’s edition focuses on atmosphere, tradition and closeness to local creators.
Christmas town under the Tatras
This year, the market will have a more refined form. Wooden huts set up around the square will create atmospheric alleys where you can easily linger for longer. It’s a place for a leisurely walk, winter photography and unhurried gift shopping.
What will we find at the stalls?
- handmade Christmas ornaments and home decorations
- highlander handicrafts, jewellery and woollen products
- ceramics, natural cosmetics and unique gifts
- traditional sweets and regional products
Each hut has its own story, and the vendors are happy to talk about their work, materials and the traditions behind their craft.
Flavours of winter in the very heart of Zakopane
A gastronomic zone will also be created around the square. It will become one of the most fragrant places in the city – full of winter flavours, aromatic spices and dishes that go perfectly with the December aura.
The offer will include, among others:
- trdelníks, gingerbread and warm cakes
- mulled drinks and hot chocolate
- oscypek cheese straight from the grill
- highlander snacks and hot dishes
It is the ideal space to pause for a moment during a walk, rest and warm up in the festive atmosphere.
Illuminations, concerts and winter evenings
In the evenings, the market will change colours – light decorations will give the square a unique atmosphere. From the small stage, carols and Christmas songs will be heard, and on selected days local bands and groups presenting highlander traditions will perform.
This is a place created for:
- family walks
- listening to Christmas music
- taking souvenir photos
- meeting friends and acquaintances
The atmosphere of the market encourages unhurried celebration of winter.
Attractions for the youngest
On selected days, Santa Claus will appear in the square, and animators will prepare workshops and activities so that children can spend their time creatively and joyfully. Winter games, family fun and occasional meetings for the youngest are also planned.
A market with new energy
After last year’s more modest edition, this year the organisers have opted for clear changes: more quality stalls, better staging, a richer programme and a carefully thought-out arrangement of the square. Thanks to this, the market is set to become one of the most pleasant places in winter Zakopane.
Invitation for a Christmas walk
The Zakopane Christmas Market 2025 is not just a shopping spot. It is a space full of mood – lights reflect off the frosty pavement, music floats above the wooden huts, and the smells of winter dishes create an atmosphere that is hard to confuse with anything else. If you’re looking for a place to feel the magic of Christmas under the Tatras, this is the place to go. You can stroll, taste, shop or simply watch as the town slowly sinks into a festive tale.
Family activities at the Kornel Makuszyński Museum – December meetings for the youngest
On 13 December, the Kornel Makuszyński Museum on Tetmajera Street will once again invite families with children to special pre-Christmas activities. It’s an ideal opportunity to spend time creatively, as a family and in the spirit of the coming holidays in the intimate, warm interiors of the museum.
Activities for the youngest – 10:15 a.m.
The first proposal is aimed at little ones aged 2 to 4. Sensory workshops will allow the youngest to discover the world through touch, smell, colour and sound. It is a meeting full of calm play and discovery, during which children, under the care of adults, can develop their imagination and sensitivity in the friendly environment of the museum.
Family meetings – 12:00 p.m.
In the afternoon, another event from the “Family Meetings at Kornel Makuszyński’s” series will take place. This time, participants will learn about Christmas traditions in Podhale – both well-known and those remembered today only by the oldest residents of the region. The meeting will be led by Gabriela Kania, who will introduce children and adults, in an accessible way, to the world of old customs, rituals and festive stories.
Re-enactors in Zakopane – re-enactment of the coronation of Bolesław the Brave
On 13 December, Zakopane will become the venue of a special event dedicated to the celebration of the 1,000th anniversary of the first royal coronation in Poland. Re-enactors from all over the country will come to the Tatras to jointly celebrate the anniversary of the coronation of Bolesław the Brave and present a thousand years of our country’s history through spectacular re-enactments, parades and concerts.
The event is open and aimed both at residents and tourists, who on that day will be able to see colourful costumes from different eras, hear early music and feel the atmosphere of bygone centuries. The re-enactors emphasise that they want to show how diverse and rich Polish tradition is and how much unites history enthusiasts from all over the country.
Programme of the event:
- 11:00 a.m. – Holy Mass for the Homeland and re-enactors
Sanctuary of the Holy Family, Krupówki 1a Street - 1:00 p.m. – ceremonial re-enactor parade along Krupówki Street
From the Holy Family Church to Niepodległości Square - 2:00 p.m. – re-enactment of the coronation of Bolesław the Brave
Main stage on Niepodległości Square - 3:00 p.m. – early music concert
- 5:00 p.m. – concert organised by the City of Zakopane
The organisers stress that they care about celebrating the anniversary together and integrating the re-enactor community. Every group and every participant is welcome, and confirmation of participation will allow everyone to be honoured in official thanks.
This event will certainly bring an atmosphere of historical journey to Zakopane and become one of the most spectacular December points in the city’s calendar.
PALD Cup 1/5 – darts tournament in Zakopane
On 14 December, another round of the Podhale Amateur League of Darts will take place at the Na Końcu Świata Bar. The tournament will start at 4:00 p.m. and will be played in the 501 double out format with a 45-dart limit, using a double-elimination system. The event is open to both league players and participants from outside the league, provided they are at least 16 years old.
Participants can count on sporting competition and additional distinctions such as the highest finish or best leg, which count towards the classification of the entire series. The entry fee is 20 PLN, and the organisers emphasise that places are limited, so it is worth registering early.
Schedule of the event:
- 3:15 p.m. – opening of registration and warm-up
- 4:15 p.m. – end of registration and start of the tournament
During the event, a 20% discount applies to participants in the venue, and bringing your own darts is welcome. It’s a perfect proposal for darts enthusiasts who want to spend their Sunday evening in a sports atmosphere.
Ich Troje Acoustic – special concert at Restauracja Watra
On 15 February 2026, a cosy Valentine’s concert by the band Ich Troje in an acoustic version will take place at Restauracja Watra. It is a unique opportunity to hear well-known songs in a completely new sound and experience an evening full of emotions, memories and musical stories that have shaped the band’s character for over three decades.
On stage will be Michał Wiśniewski, Jacek Łągwa and Martyna Majchrzak, who will present their best-known songs in delicate, acoustic arrangements. During the concert, we will hear such songs as “Powiedz”, “A wszystko to…”, “Zawsze z Tobą chciałbym być”, “Wypijmy za to!”, “Tobie oddam chęć” and many others in a new, intimate form. The musicians will also share personal stories, further highlighting the close nature of the event.
The evening will last around 120 minutes and will be an excellent choice for a Valentine’s gift or a romantic night out for two. Tickets are available in several variants, including options that allow for a meet & greet with the artists after the concert, a photo together or autographs.
The concert has a seated format and the number of seats is limited. It’s worth booking tickets in advance, as the rule “first come, first served” applies. This event is especially recommended for fans of atmospheric concerts and those who want to experience an evening with familiar music presented in a completely new, closer form.
22nd Chillout Tournament – billiards tournament at Willa Monte Rosa
On 21 December 2025, Willa Monte Rosa invites you to the 22nd edition of the billiards tournament from the Chillout Tournament series. Players will compete in 8-ball, and the entry fee of 30 PLN will go entirely into the prize pool for the best competitors.
The tournament will be played according to the PZBiL 2-KO 16/32 table, with the draw taking place just before the start. Registration will be carried out on the day of the tournament and the rules are available at the club. The competition will begin at 12:00 p.m. It’s a good opportunity to spend Sunday in a sports atmosphere and try your hand at the billiards table.
Skolim concert at Kino Sokół – an energetic evening after Christmas
On 27 December 2025, a concert by one of the most popular artists in Poland – Skolim – will take place at Kino Sokół. The event will start at 8:00 p.m. and promises to be full of energy, dance rhythms and the artist’s greatest hits, known to the public as the “King of Latino”.
Skolim, known for hits reaching millions of views, will perform in Zakopane with a programme featuring his biggest songs. The audience will hear, among others, “Wyglądasz idealnie”, “Kiss me baby”, “Nie dzwoń do mnie mała”, “Temperatura”, “Palermo”, “Daj mi jedno słowo” and the latest tracks that are topping the charts.
It is a great idea for an evening after Christmas – full of musical energy, good fun and an atmosphere that perfectly fits the winter climate of Zakopane. It’s worth arriving early, as a large turnout is expected.
New Year’s Eve Run in Zakopane
On 31 December, the traditional New Year’s Eve Run will be held in Zakopane, an event that has for years attracted both residents and tourists spending the last day of the year in the Tatras. It’s a proposal for everyone who wants to say goodbye to 2025 in an active way and start the new year with good energy.
The start of the run is scheduled for 12:00 p.m., with another entry onto the route at 4:00 p.m. The event is open to all and held in accordance with the organiser’s rules. It’s a great opportunity to spend part of New Year’s Eve day in a sports atmosphere, regardless of age or level of experience.
The run has already become a local tradition through which Zakopane combines sport, fun and joyful anticipation of the coming year. It’s the ideal way to end 2025 actively.
Events continuing in December
“CHASIOR – Hasior anew” – Władysław Hasior Gallery
At the Hasior Gallery, young artists engage in a creative dialogue with the legendary patron, showing that his art continues to inspire. This dynamic exhibition full of fresh interpretations will remain open to visitors until 31 December 2025
“Poster promoting the city of Zakopane” – Stacja Kultura
Stacja Kultura invites you to an exhibition of posters by young artists who present Zakopane through modern typography and bold colours. This diverse, creative gallery will be open until 16 January 2026.
“Motherhood” – Czerwony Dwór
At Czerwony Dwór, a moving exhibition about motherhood continues, presented through glass painting and sculpture. It is an intimate, warm story about womanhood and tradition, which can be viewed until 17 January 2026.
“At the Bottom of the Ocean” – Willa Koliba
At Willa Koliba, Igor Omulecki combines photography, collages and archival materials, creating a unique story about memory and the Zakopane style. The exhibition, full of atmospheric juxtapositions, will remain open until 15 March 2026.
“Let’s touch a magic of theatre!” – Witkacy Theatre
The Witkacy Theatre is running English-language workshops that develop the voice, stage movement and confidence of young people. The series will end with a joint performance and will last until 31 May 2026.
Dance workshops for children 9+ – Witkacy Atelier
Friday dance classes at Atelier Witkacego are an energetic mix of modern jazz, street dance and elements of acrobatics. The programme gives children confidence and joy in movement and will continue until 31 May 2026.
