March 2026 in Zakopane promises to be exceptionally intense – the first breaths of spring can already be felt, but the city is still alive with sports emotions, cultural events, and meetings that connect residents and guests under the Tatras. The calendar includes both family competitions on snow, patriotic ceremonies, concerts, workshops and film premieres, as well as exhibition finissages and international artistic events. Check out what March 2026 brings to Zakopane and plan your time so as not to miss the most interesting proposals.
73rd Kornel Makuszyński Memorial – Koziołek Matołek Invites to the Start
This is one of the most joyful winter events for the youngest in Zakopane. The 73rd Kornel Makuszyński Memorial, or the Koziołek Matołek competitions, will once again combine sports emotions with good fun and a family atmosphere under the Tatras. Children can look forward to cross-country skiing, jumps, slalom, and snowboarding – all in the spirit of adventure and first sports experiences.
On Saturday, the competition will start on the COS Zakopane trails, and at noon it will move to the Medium Ski Jump. On Sunday, the competitors will meet at Polana Szymoszkowa, where alpine and snowboarding events will be held. This is a great opportunity to cheer for the youngest and feel the true winter atmosphere of the city.
Key information:
- February 28, 2026 (Saturday), 10:00 AM–2:00 PM – cross-country skiing (COS Zakopane) and jumps (Medium Krokiew)
- March 1, 2026 (Sunday), 10:30 AM–2:00 PM – slalom and snowboarding (Polana Szymoszkowa)
- children from birth years 2014–2022 participate
- participation in the event is free
If you want your children to try their hand on the snow or simply experience a family sports morning in Zakopane – it’s worth reserving this weekend. Koziołek Matołek is already waiting for the next little heroes.
On the Trail of the Wolf – Run in Memory of the Cursed Soldiers in Zakopane
On March 1 at noon, Górna Rówień Krupowa will once again become the site of a unique meeting of history and sports. On the Trail of the Wolf – Run in Memory of the Cursed Soldiers is an event that combines physical activity with a moment of reflection and collective tribute to the heroes of the Polish independence underground from 1944–1963.
The Zakopane run is open and family-friendly. The organizers have prepared three distances so that everyone, regardless of age and fitness, can participate in the event. Participants can expect routes:
- about 1963 m – family distance (two loops)
- about 2935 m – three loops
- about 4879 m – five loops
The start is scheduled for March 1, 2026 at 12:00 PM. The race office will be open on the day of the run from 10:30 AM–11:30 AM next to the “ZAKOPANE” installation on Górna Rówień Krupowa.
The participant limit is 100 people, so it’s worth signing up early. Registrations are accepted electronically until February 26, 2026 at 11:59 PM. Participation is determined by registration and payment of the entry fee. If the limit is not exhausted, registrations will also be possible on the day of the competition.
The On the Trail of the Wolf Run is not only sports competition in the Open categories for women and men, but above all a shared experience and a symbolic gesture of memory. If you want to combine outdoor exercise with an important historical message, reserve Sunday noon and join the Zakopane run. The organizer of the event is the Municipal Sports and Recreation Center in Zakopane.
Opatija Riviera – Mecca for Artists in Willa Oksza
On March 1 at 11:00 AM in the Art Gallery in Willa Oksza, the meeting “Opatija Riviera – Mecca for Artists” will take place, organized on the occasion of Stanisław Ignacy Witkiewicz’s birthday. Dr. Małgorzata Vražić, a researcher of Witkacy’s work and author of a book on Polish traces in Opatija, will talk about artistic inspirations on the Adriatic and stays of Polish creators in Abbazia and Lovran. The event will last until 1:00 PM. Free admission.
After Dark, Shine by Example – Ban on Night Hiking in Tatra National Park
Tatra National Park reminds that from March 1 to November 30, there is a ban on moving on trails from dusk to dawn. This is important information for all planning walks or hikes in the Tatras after dark and early in the morning the trails are unavailable to tourists.
The ban is primarily aimed at protecting nature and tourist safety. At night, many species of wild animals are more active or resting, and encountering them on the trail can be not only stressful but also dangerous especially in the case of large predators like bears or wolves. Such a protection system gives animals a chance for peaceful movement between foraging and resting places.
Additionally, from March 1 to May 15, night closures of selected trail sections are extended, which due to the mating of black grouse and capercaillie and other natural processes are particularly sensitive to disturbances.
This is a practical tip and reminder to plan mountain trips during the day and respect nature’s rest time then the Tatras are the most beautiful and safest for both tourists and the wild inhabitants of the mountains.
National Day of Remembrance of the Cursed Soldiers in Zakopane
On March 2, Zakopane will join the celebrations of the National Day of Remembrance of the “Cursed Soldiers”. This is a time for collective reflection and tribute to the soldiers of the post-war independence underground. The ceremonies will begin at 10:45 AM with the gathering of flag bearers in front of the Sanctuary of the Holy Family on Krupówki Street. At 11:00 AM, a Holy Mass will be celebrated, after which participants will proceed to the Palace Museum on Chałubińskiego Street. There, the Roll Call of Remembrance and laying of wreaths will take place. The Tatra County Starost and the Mayor of Zakopane invite participation along with the youth of Zakopane schools. This is an open event for residents and guests of the city.
Evening in Czerwony Dwór – about Ryszard Kaczorowski
On March 2 at 6:00 PM in Willa Czerwony Dwór, another meeting from the “Evenings in Czerwony Dwór” series will take place. This time, the evening will be dedicated to the figure of Ryszard Kaczorowski, the last President of the Republic of Poland in exile and Honorary Citizen of Zakopane. Participants will recall his life path: from a scout and soldier of Anders’ Army, through years of emigration, to the symbolic transfer of the insignia of power in 1990 in free Poland. This is an opportunity to return to important pages of recent history and talk about the people who co-created it. The meeting will be led by Prof. Dr. Piotr Bąk. Free admission.
“Following the People of the Mountains 2025” – Film Portrait of Podtatrze
The City of Zakopane and the Municipal Public Library invite on March 5 at 4:30 PM to the Mediateka on Chramcówki Street for the screening of the film “Following the People of the Mountains 2025”. Admission to the event is free.
The latest work by Tytus Byczkowski and Patryk Fornalski is a story about 16 distinctive figures from Podtatrze. In the film, we will see people who daily co-create the character of our region, mountain rescuers, guides, athletes, and representatives of the world of culture. This is a story about passion, work, and attachment to the mountains, which for many are not only a place of life but also a source of inspiration.
After the screening, a meeting with the film’s heroes is planned, which will be an excellent opportunity for conversation and asking questions to the creators and the figures appearing in the film. The evening will end with a mini concert of highlander music, which will emphasize the local character of the event. This is a proposal for all who want to better know the people behind the daily rhythm of Podtatrze and see the region up close through the eyes of its residents.
Jazz Quartet in Stacja Kultura
On March 6 at 7:00 PM in Klubokawiarnia Stacja Kultura on Chramcówki Street 35, jazz will sound in its best form. The Jazz Quartet will appear on stage, a band that combines improvisation with modern sound and stage energy. The audience can expect original compositions and fresh interpretations of jazz standards. It will be atmospheric, at times dynamic, with space for musical dialogue and spontaneous improvisations, which are the heart of jazz.
This is a proposal for both loyal fans of the genre and those who want to spend a Friday evening in the atmospheric space of Stacja Kultura with live music.
First Saturday of the Month Men’s Rosary Zakopane
On March 7 at 8:30 AM in the Sanctuary of the Holy Family on Krupówki Street, another meeting as part of the Men’s Rosary Zakopane initiative will take place. This monthly event gathers men who want to start the day together with prayer and a moment of focus.
The program includes a Holy Mass, followed by communal rosary prayer. The meeting is open and directed to all gentlemen – regardless of age – who wish to join this form of spiritual community. This is a calm, morning time of prayer in the heart of the city, which for many has become a regular point of the first Saturday of the month.
ŻyczLIVE Meetings: How to Motivate? But… Really?
On March 8 at 4:00 PM in the Kombinat space on Nowotarska Street, workshops from the ŻyczLIVE Meetings series will take place under the intriguing title “How to Motivate? But… Really?”. This is a proposal for those who want to better understand where true engagement comes from – in work, in relationships, and in daily life.
During the meeting, participants will look at motivation mechanisms, check what really works and what is just a repeated myth, and consider how to exert a positive influence on themselves and others. The workshop combines elements of lecture, discussion, and group work, all in an intimate atmosphere conducive to open conversation.
The classes will be led by Piotr Rudzki – an inspirational speaker, business trainer, and Polish Public Speaking Champion 2023, long associated with the TEDx environment and leader development. His experience combines the world of business, leadership, and the stage.
This is a ticketed event directed to people who want to find motivation in themselves or learn to effectively support others in action.
New Project – Film Club in Mediateka
The Municipal Public Library in Zakopane invites participation in a new project – the Film Club in Mediateka. This is a proposal for all who like cinema and want to stay after the screening for conversation, exchange opinions, and look at the film from different perspectives.
The first meeting will take place on March 10, 2026 at 4:00 PM in Mediateka on Chramcówki Street 35a – a joint film screening is planned. A week later, on March 17, 2026, also at 4:00 PM, participants will meet again to talk and discuss the watched film.
The Film Club operates in the format of two meetings per month. Participation in the events is free. This is a new initiative on the cultural map of Zakopane, which has a chance to become a regular meeting place for lovers of ambitious cinema.
Łyżnik – An Extraordinary Spoon Shelf in Willa Koliba
On March 12 at 5:00 PM in Willa Koliba Museum of Zakopane Style on Kościeliska Street, a meeting dedicated to one of the most characteristic, yet unassuming elements of former Podhale home furnishings will take place. “Łyżnik – An Extraordinary Spoon Shelf” is a story about an object that played an important role in the history of the Zakopane style.
Anna Kozak, head of the Ethnographic Department, will talk about the łyżniki in the Tatra Museum’s collection. During the meeting, she will bring closer their significance in the region’s culture and the influence they had on Stanisław Witkiewicz. In this story, the figure of Maria Dembowska will also appear, at whose place the artist first saw this exceptional furnishing element.
The event accompanies the exhibition “At the Bottom of the Ocean”, which draws attention to the beginnings of the Zakopane style and the fascinations that accompanied Witkiewicz after arriving in Zakopane. Free admission as part of the Tatra Museum promotion.
Easter Workshops for Creating Decorations
On March 14 at 10:00 AM in Klubokawiarnia Stacja Kultura on Chramcówki Street 35, the youngest will be able to feel the true creative atmosphere of the approaching Easter. All thanks to workshops for creating decorations, which will introduce children to the world of colors, spring inspirations, and handicrafts.
This is a proposal for children from 6 years old who like to act, cut, glue, and independently create holiday decorations. During the classes, participants will prepare their own Easter ornaments, which they can proudly take home. The workshops are not only fun but also developing imagination, manual skills, and creative thinking in a friendly, relaxed atmosphere.
The organizers provide all materials needed for work. Participation in the classes is free, but prior registration is required. The event is prepared by the Zakopane Cultural Center – Stacja Kultura Zakopane.
Klenczon – Legend. Concert by the Piramidy Band
On March 14 at 6:00 PM in the auditorium of the Zakopane Educational Center im. H. Modrzejewska on Kasprusie Street, the greatest hits of Krzysztof Klenczon will sound. The concert “Klenczon – Legend” performed by the Piramidy band is a musical journey to the times of Czerwone Gitary and Trzy Korony, full of emotions and joint singing.
The audience will hear such songs as “Kwiaty we włosach”, “Biały krzyż”, “Wróćmy na jeziora”, “10 w skali Beauforta” or “Jesień idzie przez park”. These are songs that for many became the soundtrack of youth, and today still connect generations. The Piramidy band, known for refined arrangements and stage energy, promises an evening full of emotions, anecdotes, and good fun. The concert will last until about 7:30 PM. Tickets priced at 50 zł. The organizer of the event is the Piramidy band.
Finissage of the Exhibition “At the Bottom of the Ocean” in Willa Koliba
On March 15 at 3:00 PM in Willa Koliba – Museum of Zakopane Style on Kościeliska Street, the finissage of the exhibition “At the Bottom of the Ocean” will take place.
This is the last opportunity to see the exposition and take part in the author’s guided tour by Igor Omulecki. The artist will talk about the behind-the-scenes of the project’s creation, his inspirations, and his view on the beginnings of the Zakopane style, which became an important reference point for the entire exhibition.
The accompanying event will be a good opportunity to meet art in the intimate space of Koliba and talk with the creator. Free admission as part of the Tatra Museum promotion.
Gardele Tango Awards 2026 in Zakopane
From March 19–22, Zakopane will become the world capital of tango. In Hotel Belvedere Resort & Spa, the Gardele Tango Awards 2026 will take place – a prestigious event honoring outstanding personalities associated with tango, its culture, and art.
This is not only an awards gala but a multi-day celebration of passion, music, and dance. The program includes, among others, presentations of finalists, accompanying events, and the ceremonial Final Gala, during which we will learn the winners of this year’s edition. Zakopane will once again become a meeting place for artists, dancers, and tango lovers from around the world.
The event will take place from March 19–22, 2026 in Hotel Belvedere Resort & Spa. The organizer is the Tango Institute.
Zakopane Truancy Day First Day of Spring in Motion
On March 20 at 10:00 AM in the very heart of Zakopane, on Górna Rówień Krupowa, the Zakopane Truancy Day will take place, a sports-recreational event organized by the Municipal Sports and Recreation Center Zakopane.
This is a proposal for all who want to welcome spring in an active way. The program includes various forms of movement, games, and joint integration in the spirit of sports energy and joy from the first rays of sun after winter.
Zakopane Truancy Day is a great opportunity to spend the morning with family or friends, detach from school duties, and feel the spring climate of Zakopane streets, trails, and urban spaces. This is an open event that will last until 1:00 PM.
Finissage of the Exhibition “MeetUS in MT” in Willa Oksza
On March 21 at 6:00 PM in the Art Gallery in Willa Oksza on Zamoyskiego Street, the finissage of the exhibition “MeetUS in MT” will take place. This is a unique opportunity to see the post-workshop exposition of Deaf Artists for the last time and meet with creativity that in a special way talks about communication, sensitivity, and art without barriers.
The program includes a curatorial guided tour by Marek Krzysztof Lasecki in Polish Sign Language. This is not only a summary of the exhibition but also an important gesture of openness and dialogue, fitting into the idea of the entire project. The event is organized as part of the Tatra Museum promotion, free admission.
“Janina Maślanka. Light of the Heart – Painting on Glass”
Until March 21, 2026 in the Native Culture Center in Willa Czerwony Dwór, you can view a retrospective exhibition dedicated to the work of Janina Maślanka. The exposition, opened in January, presents painting on glass inspired by sacral motifs and the everyday life of Podhale. This is one of the more important winter proposals for lovers of folk art in Zakopane.
Ongoing Events:
“Youth of Kenar”
From February 2, 2026 in Galeria Stacja Kultura Zakopane, the exhibition “Youth of Kenar” is ongoing, showing the creativity of students from the Zakopane art high school. Viewers can see sculpture, painting, graphics, and digital forms of the young generation of artists. The exposition will be available until April 17, 2026.
“Mountains–Sea–Sea–Mountains”
Until March 27, 2026 in the Municipal Art Gallery on Krupówki, the exhibition “Mountains–Sea–Sea–Mountains” is presented. The project connects artists from Podhale and Pomerania, building a dialogue between two different spaces and creative sensitivities. The vernissage took place on February 6, and the exposition will last throughout March.
XII Zakopane Amateur Alpine Skiing Cup
The cycle of the XII Zakopane Amateur Alpine Skiing Cup started on January 10, 2026 and includes three editions on Podhale slopes. The competitions are simultaneously qualifiers for the Polish Masters Championships and part of the PZN Masters Polish Cup. The final is planned on Polana Szymoszkowa, and the competition will end on March 7, 2026.
“At the Bottom of the Ocean”
Until March 15, 2026 in Willa Koliba, you can view Igor Omulecki’s exhibition “At the Bottom of the Ocean”. The exposition, started back in 2025, combines photography, collage, and archives in reflection on memory and local identity. This is one of the longest-lasting winter museum proposals in the city.
“Repetition of Memory”
In the Palace Museum from 2025, Hubert Czerepok’s exhibition “Repetition of Memory” is presented. The artist through film, drawing, and installations confronts 20th-century history with contemporary conflicts. The exposition will remain available for visitors until March 1, 2026.
“Let’s touch a magic of theatre!”
Until May 31, 2026 in the Witkacy Theater, an English-language cycle of theater workshops for youth “Let’s touch a magic of theatre!” is being implemented. The program develops skills in working with voice, movement, and stage expression, and its culmination will be a joint show by participants. This is a long-term educational proposal continuing also in March.
Dance Workshops for Children 9+ – Witkacy Atelier
Dance workshops for children 9+ in Witkacy Atelier started in winter 2026 and are held regularly in the format of cyclic classes. The program combines modern jazz, street dance, and elements of acrobatics, focusing on the participants’ motor development and self-confidence. The classes will continue until the end of May 2026.
