August 2026 in Zakopane promises to be exceptionally eventful. During the second half of the summer holidays, the area beneath the Tatra Mountains will offer concerts, folklore festivals, family events, workshops, exhibitions, and attractions for lovers of the mountains and local culture. We have prepared a selection of the most interesting events to help you plan your stay and choose attractions that match your interests. Discover what is worth seeing and where to go in Zakopane in August 2026. The article covers both one-off events and recurring attractions taking place throughout the month.
Free City Tour Zakopane, guided walks in August
August is a great time to discover a less obvious side of Zakopane. As part of the Free City Tour project, residents and tourists can take part free of charge in themed walks and tours introducing the town’s history, culture, and highlander traditions. It is an excellent choice for anyone who wants to see Zakopane through the eyes of local guides and hear fascinating stories not found in typical guidebooks.
The August programme includes walks devoted to prominent figures associated with Zakopane, stories about life beneath the Tatra Mountains in the past, and tours presenting the region’s authentic heritage. The organisers have also prepared accessible events for people with disabilities, allowing even more participants to enjoy the summer programme.
Participation in the walks is free, but advance registration is required. If you are planning an August stay in Zakopane and would like to get to know the town better, it is worth booking a place on one of the prepared routes.
Summer Entertainment Zone on Gubałówka
Throughout August, Gubałówka will be buzzing with activity thanks to the Summer Entertainment Zone. Every Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday, children and entire families can enjoy a wide programme of free activities, sports challenges, and games inspired by Tatra nature and highlander traditions. It is a perfect idea for an active afternoon with a beautiful panorama of the Tatra Mountains in the background.
Each day of the week has its own theme. Tuesdays feature “Tatra Explorers”, during which children solve puzzles, learn about Tatra nature, and take part in creative workshops. Thursdays are devoted to sports competition as part of the “Beach Championship”, with tournaments, fitness challenges, and the selection of the Gubałówka Beach Champion. Fridays bring “Highlander Fun on the Beach”, including encounters with regional culture, shepherding demonstrations, highlander music, and a shared bonfire on Butorowy Wierch.
The Summer Entertainment Zone will continue until the end of August and is a great option for families spending their holidays in Zakopane. All attractions take place on Gubałówka and are free of charge.
August at the Tatra Museum: workshops, walks, and exhibitions
In August, the Tatra Museum invites children, teenagers, and adults to enjoy a rich programme of events. The schedule includes art workshops, family educational activities, guided walks, history meetings, and exhibition openings. Many require advance booking, so it is worth planning your participation ahead of time.
The most interesting events in August:
- 1 August – opening of the outdoor exhibition “Bronisława Giżycka. Ethnography. Podhale, Orawa, Spisz”.
- 4 August – glass-painting workshops at Villa Oksza and afternoon workshops at the Gallery of Oriental Carpets.
- 6 August – the meeting “History (Un)noticed. A Story by Curator Jan Jarosz” at the Palace Museum.
- 7 August – opening of an exhibition of mountain-themed watercolours by Zofia Bolechowska.
- 8 August – curator-led tour of the exhibition marking the 150th anniversary of the Woodcarving School in Zakopane.
- 9 August – “Breakfast at the Korkosz Family Farm”, a special event at the Korkosz Farmstead in Spisz.
- 20 August – workshops for children at Villa Koliba and a meeting devoted to legendary mountaineer Wiesław Stanisławski.
- 21 August – the family activity “What Sings in the Soul” and evening woodcarving workshops.
- 22 August – an ethnographic coach trip to Orawa and sensory activities for young children at the Kornel Makuszyński Museum.
- 28 August – the highlander-themed walk “From the Spoon Rack to the Zakopane Style” and the opening of the post-plein-air exhibition “Sculpture Station 2026”.
This is an excellent option for anyone who wants to discover Podhale from a different perspective through art, history, and local traditions. It is worth checking the details of selected events in advance, as some require tickets or registration.
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Opening of the outdoor exhibition “Bronisława Giżycka. Ethnography. Podhale, Orawa, Spisz”
On 1 August, an outdoor exhibition devoted to Bronisława Giżycka, an outstanding ethnographer associated with Podhale, Orawa, and Spisz, will open in front of the Main Building of the Tatra Museum. The exhibition will present her achievements and show the enormous contribution she made to documenting the region’s culture and traditions.
The exhibition will be on display throughout August in front of the Tatra Museum at 10 Krupówki Street. It is an interesting option for anyone who wants to learn more about the history and heritage of Podhale while walking through the centre of Zakopane.
An Evening at Harenda devoted to Jan Kasprowicz
On 2 August, the Jan Kasprowicz Museum at Harenda invites visitors to the 237th Evening at Harenda, entitled “A Friend of the Whole World. Jan Kasprowicz in Memories”. The meeting will take place one day after the 100th anniversary of the poet’s death and will offer an opportunity to discover his lesser-known, more personal side.
Participants will explore the recollections of people who knew Jan Kasprowicz and try to answer what he was like in everyday life. The meeting will be hosted by Piotr Kyc, and admission is free. It is an appealing event for lovers of literature and the history of Zakopane.
Opening of the exhibition “Jan Kasprowicz: Life and Work – Inspirations”
On 4 August, the Władysław and Jerzy Kulczycki Art Gallery will host the opening of the post-competition exhibition “Jan Kasprowicz: Life and Work – Inspirations”. Prepared as part of the Jan Kasprowicz Year celebrations, the exhibition presents works by artists who drew inspiration from the poet’s writing and biography.
Visitors will see exceptional works created using artistic textiles, embroidery, and lace, presenting Kasprowicz’s legacy from a modern artistic perspective. The event will appeal both to literature lovers and to those interested in handicrafts and contemporary art.
The opening will be a great opportunity to meet the artists and learn how the exhibition was created. Those unable to attend the opening can still visit the exhibition, which will remain on display at the gallery until 29 August.
Summer at the Library, an August full of creative activities
August at the Municipal Public Library in Zakopane is a perfect opportunity to combine holiday fun with discovering the world of books. Children and entire families can take part in a series of free workshops featuring puzzles, art activities, environmental challenges, and games that develop creativity. An additional attraction is the Friday film series in the Summer Cinema Land at the Mediateka branch.
The August programme includes:
- 5 August – “Library Open-Air Painting Session”, a literary and art workshop inspired by the book “Cucumber on a Journey”,
- 12 August – “The Puzzle Trackers’ Second Mission”, an activity full of riddles and literary challenges for young detectives,
- 19 August – “Climate Maths Game”, a workshop showing that mathematics can help us care for the environment.
All activities are free and take place at various library branches across Zakopane. It is a great option for a creative afternoon for children spending their holidays beneath the Tatra Mountains.
“Cohen. From Darkness to Light”, a special concert in Zakopane
On 8 August, the Zakopane Education Centre will host “Cohen. From Darkness to Light”, performed by Marcin Styczeń. The evening will feature Leonard Cohen’s most beautiful songs as well as pieces from his final albums, presented in the artist’s own translations approved by the heirs of the Canadian poet and musician.
The concert will be a musical journey through Cohen’s work, filled with reflection, emotion, and timeless lyrics. It is an excellent choice for lovers of sung poetry and anyone who appreciates intimate concerts with a unique atmosphere. The ticketed event begins at 7:00 p.m.
Japanese Mountain Day at Witkacy Atelier
On 11 and 12 August, Witkacy Atelier invites visitors to a special event inspired by Japan’s Mountain Day. Over two days, participants will be able to discover Japanese culture, explore its relationship with the mountains, and take part in workshops, meetings, and activities prepared for entire families.
The programme includes:
- 11 August, 3:00 p.m. – origami and kendama workshops and the joint creation of the art installation “Our Shared Mountain”,
- 11 August, 5:00 p.m. – “Kamishibai”, a traditional Japanese storytelling theatre performance by Teatr Nemno,
- 11 August, 6:00 p.m. – a meeting with Akiko Miwa, a Japanese woman who has lived in the Gorce Mountains for many years and will talk about her homeland, life in Poland, and love of the mountains,
- 12 August, 8:30 a.m. – a Shinrin-yoku forest-bathing session in the forests of the Gorce Mountains, followed by a Japanese lunch.
This event is ideal for anyone who wants to look at the mountains from a different perspective and discover fascinating similarities between Japanese and Podhale culture. Advance registration is required for some activities, so it is worth reserving a place early.
“Music Is a Magician’s Paintbrush”, summer workshops at Villa Atma
On 13 August, the Karol Szymanowski Museum at Villa Atma invites children and teenagers to the creative workshop “Music Is a Magician’s Paintbrush”. During this special activity, participants will discover how sounds can inspire colourful works of art and stimulate the imagination.
During 90 minutes of shared fun, children will explore the connections between music and painting, experimenting with colours, rhythm, and different materials to create their own artistic compositions. The workshops are intended for participants aged 6 to 14 and will take place in two sessions, at 10:00 a.m. and 12:00 noon. Places are limited, so advance booking is recommended.
Zakopane Music Salon, songs inspired by Tetmajer’s poetry
On 13 August, the Stanisław Ignacy Witkiewicz Theatre will host another concert in the Zakopane Music Salon series, “The Four Seasons with Song”. It is an attractive event for lovers of intimate concerts who appreciate classical music and the unique atmosphere of Zakopane interiors.
During the evening entitled “Walking Through the Meadows”, audiences will hear songs set to words by Kazimierz Tetmajer and other Polish poets. Soprano Katarzyna Wiwer and pianist Leonardo Rizzo will perform works by composers including Mieczysław Karłowicz, Karol Szymanowski, and Jan Sztwiertnia. Admission is free, making this a perfect opportunity to spend an August evening with music in one of Zakopane’s most atmospheric venues.
17th European Fair of Regional Products
From 14 to 18 August, Górna Rówień Krupowa will once again become a meeting place for lovers of regional flavours, traditional crafts, and Podhale culture. For years, the European Fair of Regional Products has been one of Zakopane’s most popular summer events, attracting both residents and tourists from across Poland.
Visitors can look forward to dozens of exhibitors offering regional delicacies, natural cosmetics, handicrafts, and products made according to traditional recipes. The fair will be accompanied by a rich artistic and educational programme, bringing new attractions each day. The programme includes:
- concerts and performances by regional groups,
- cooking demonstrations and tastings of local specialities,
- presentations by Rural Women’s Associations,
- traditional craft workshops and demonstrations,
- competitions for the best regional products,
- meetings with exhibitors and folk artists.
It is a perfect opportunity to taste flavours from different regions of Poland and Europe, buy original products from local producers, and enjoy a unique atmosphere beneath the Tatra Mountains. If you are in Zakopane in mid-August, the European Fair of Regional Products is certainly worth adding to your holiday itinerary.
Vocation discernment retreat at the Kalatówki Hermitage
From 17 to 21 August, the Hermitage of the Albertine Sisters at Kalatówki will host a vocation discernment retreat under the theme “Take Courage! It Is I”. The retreat is intended for young women who want to pause, find peace, and reflect on their path in life in the exceptional surroundings of the Tatra Mountains.
The programme includes communal prayer, conversations, time for personal reflection, and an opportunity to learn about life in the community of the Albertine Sisters. The intimate atmosphere of the hermitage encourages a break from the rush of everyday life and creates space for asking important questions and deepening one’s faith.
The retreat will take place at Kalatówki, and participation is voluntary following advance registration with the organisers.
Summer Wing Tsun Kung Fu training camp in Zakopane
From 17 to 22 August, Zakopane will host participants in a summer Wing Tsun Kung Fu training camp. This six-day event is intended both for beginners starting their martial arts journey and for more experienced practitioners who want to develop their skills under the guidance of qualified instructors.
The programme includes daily technical training, self-defence exercises, wooden-dummy practice, and elements involving training weapons. The organisers have also prepared integration activities, group mountain outings, and time to relax and discover the charms of Zakopane.
It is an excellent option for anyone wishing to combine an active holiday beneath the Tatra Mountains with skill development and training in a unique mountain setting. The camp runs until 22 August, and advance registration is required.
Krupówki, Poland’s most fashionable street: fashion and folklore in the heart of Zakopane
On 20 August, Krupówki Street will become a unique space presenting a contemporary face of Podhale tradition. The event “Krupówki, Poland’s Most Fashionable Street”, held under the theme “Tradition and Folklore: the Gold of Podhale”, will combine fashion, art, and regional crafts in the very centre of town.
Participants can expect shows of collections inspired by Podhale culture, presentations by local designers and artisans, and artistic staging highlighting the region’s unique character. It is an excellent opportunity to see how traditional patterns and motifs take on modern forms and to meet creators passionately developing Podhale heritage.
The event will take place by the pond on Krupówki Street, and admission is free. It will appeal both to lovers of fashion and folklore and to anyone wishing to spend an August evening in the special atmosphere of central Zakopane.
57th International Festival of Highland Folklore
From 21 to 27 August, Zakopane will once again become the world capital of folklore. The International Festival of Highland Folklore is one of Poland’s most important cultural events and the largest summer celebration in the capital of the Tatra Mountains. For decades, it has attracted groups presenting the authentic folklore of mountain regions, as well as thousands of residents and tourists eager to experience the unique atmosphere of this celebration of tradition.
Throughout the festival week, Dolna Rówień Krupowa will host competition concerts, performances by folk bands and regional ensembles, National Days, workshops, meetings with folk artists, and events for entire families. One of the most eagerly awaited highlights will be the traditional festival parade through the streets of Zakopane, filling the town with music, dance, and colourful costumes from around the world.
This year, traditions will be presented by groups from:
- Bulgaria,
- Bosnia and Herzegovina,
- Croatia,
- the Czech Republic,
- Ghana,
- Poland,
- Portugal,
- Romania,
- Senegal,
- Slovakia,
- Turkey,
- Hungary,
- Italy.
The festival offers not only spectacular performances but also a prestigious competition in which groups compete for the Gold, Silver, and Bronze Ciupaga Awards, among the most highly valued honours in the world of folklore. If you are in Zakopane at the end of August, be sure to make time for this event. It is a unique opportunity to encounter the cultures of mountain communities from around the world in one place and discover why the festival has long been a symbol of summer in Zakopane.
“Stuk Puk”, a theatrical adventure for young children
On 21 August, the Witkacy Theatre invites its youngest audience members to “Stuk Puk”, a performance created especially for children aged 1 to 4. This story full of colour and simple forms uses theatre, music, and play to stimulate the imagination and encourage toddlers to participate actively.
The performance tells the story of two characters who gradually transform a grey world into a colourful space. After the show, children and their parents will be able to take part in shared play inspired by the events on stage. It is a perfect choice for a child’s first visit to the theatre and a family afternoon in Zakopane. Admission costs a symbolic one złoty.
Night Beach Volleyball Tournament
On 28 August, the beach courts at COS OPO Zakopane will host the Night Beach Volleyball Tournament. It is one of the most spectacular sporting events marking the end of the summer holidays beneath the Tatra Mountains, with competition moving onto the sand and continuing into the evening. The tournament is open both to Zakopane residents and to teams from other regions of the country.
The tournament will be played in Open and Women’s categories. In addition to sporting excitement, the organisers promise a great atmosphere, attractive prizes, and an opportunity to test your skills on professional courts at the foot of the Tatra Mountains. Matches begin at 4:00 p.m. and will continue until late in the evening. Registration is open until 26 August, and places are limited. If you enjoy beach volleyball and active leisure, this is a perfect opportunity to end the summer holidays with sporting competition in Zakopane’s exceptional scenery.
Ongoing events in August
International Festival of Organ and Chamber Music
Until 1 August 2026, the jubilee 25th Wacław Geiger International Festival of Organ and Chamber Music will continue. The series began on 11 July and includes nine free concerts held in venues including Zakopane churches, Czerwony Dwór, and the Jan Kasprowicz Museum. The final event at Harenda will commemorate the 100th anniversary of Jan Kasprowicz’s death.
Bike Week Tatry 2026
The motorcycle celebration beneath the Tatra Mountains begins on 31 July at the Ugory Ski Lift. The programme includes concerts, motorcycle shows, competitions, group rides, and an exhibitor zone, and the event will continue until 2 August 2026. It is intended both for motorcyclists and for anyone wishing to see spectacular machines and experience the atmosphere of one of the region’s largest motorcycle events.
Summer Bonfires with a Highlander Host on Butorowy Wierch
Every Saturday during the summer holidays, Butorowy Wierch fills with highlander music, stories about Podhale traditions, and family entertainment. Participants can enjoy a bonfire, folk-band performances, regional crafts, competitions, and attractions for children. The series, which began on 4 July, will end on 29 August 2026, and participation is free for holders of a PKL Gubałówka railway ticket.
LOTTO Summer Cinema Sopot–Zakopane
Until 31 August 2026, Independence Square will serve as an open-air cinema. Launched on 1 July, the series of free screenings features Polish productions, international hits, comedies, family films, and award-winning festival cinema. Screenings take place every evening, offering a pleasant way to end a summer day beneath the Tatra Mountains.
“Jan Kasprowicz – Life and Work – Inspirations” competition
This nationwide competition encourages participants to create works inspired by the life and achievements of Jan Kasprowicz. It is accompanied by weaving workshops and will culminate in a post-competition exhibition. Participants have until 31 August 2026 to take part and develop their artistic ideas.
“Cosmological Notebook” by Tomasz Haładaj
The Władysław Hasior Gallery is presenting an exhibition combining cosmic motifs with inspiration drawn from the work of the gallery’s patron. Until 29 September 2026, visitors can view paintings and sculptures forming a contemporary story about space, matter, and imagination. The exhibition is intended for anyone interested in unexpected combinations of contemporary art and Władysław Hasior’s legacy.
Exhibition devoted to Jan Kasprowicz
Until 10 October 2026, the Kornel Makuszyński Museum is presenting an exhibition prepared to mark the 100th anniversary of Jan Kasprowicz’s death. It introduces the poet’s biography and work, with particular attention to his links with Zakopane and the Tatra Mountains. It offers an opportunity to discover Kasprowicz not only as the author of well-known works but also as an important figure in local history.
“The Illusion of Freedom” by Paulina Martyniak
Paulina Martyniak’s painting exhibition, which opened in June, remains on display at the Stacja Kultura café and cultural club. The works can be viewed until 1 November 2026, so the exhibition will remain accessible after the summer holidays have ended. It is an appealing option for audiences interested in contemporary painting and personal interpretations of the concept of freedom.
“Underground – a World Torn from Darkness”
A new exhibition at the Tatra Museum leads visitors into the world of caves, geology, and underground mysteries. It combines natural-science themes with history and culture, presenting the underground from several different perspectives. The exhibition will remain open longer than any of the other events described here—until 28 February 2027.
