Bielsko-Biała has begun the year as the first Polish Capital of Culture. On Saturday 17 January, the city centre saw the inauguration of a project that, in 2026, will feature more than a hundred events and cultural activities. Processions of residents, a joint polonaise and an outdoor concert titled “Evviva l’arte” opened the programme, which aims to build the city’s recognition across Poland and strengthen its position as an important cultural hub.

The inauguration began with four processions that marched through the streets of Bielsko-Biała. They included residents, representatives of cultural centres, ensembles and artistic groups, as well as social organisations and senior communities. The processions converged at Wojska Polskiego Square, where a joint polonaise, often hailed the Polish national dance, symbolically launched the year of the Polish Capital of Culture.

Invited guests and representatives of institutions, including those from government and local administration, cultural circles and project partners, also took part in the inaugural events. Among those present was Magdalena Krucz, President of the Polish Tourism Organisation.

In the evening, the main highlight was the outdoor concert at Ratuszowy Square: “Evviva l’arte – Long Live Art”. The stage featured artists connected with Bielsko-Biała as well as performers known to audiences nationwide. The concert was prepared as a spectacular television production on the largest outdoor stage in the city’s history.

Polish Capital of Culture Year: Over 100 events in 2026

The title of Polish Capital of Culture means an entire year of various initiatives for Bielsko-Biała. The city has more than a hundred events planned for 2026: from festivals and premieres to projects carried out in public spaces and activities engaging local communities. The programme is based on the idea of the “City of Weaves,” in which three key threads stand out: creativity, nature and community. The detailed calendar of events is available here: https://bb2026.pl/program/

Bielsko-Biała: A City with Culture and Character

For years, Bielsko-Biała has consistently developed its cultural offerings and strengthened its position as a city with a distinct identity. It is often called “little Vienna” due to its architecture and the atmosphere of its downtown area: Secessionist tenement houses, grand squares, pedestrian streets and cafés create a cohesive, walkable space. It is also an important point on the map of Polish animation. Iconic animated characters such as the doggie Reksio as well as Bolek and Lolek were created here, and the Animated Film Studio continues educational, screening and workshop activities.

The city’s cultural map includes institutions such as the Bielska BWA Gallery, the Polish Theatre and Sułkowski Castle, while the calendar is filled out by well-established events like the “Bielska Zadymka Jazzowa” Festival, the O!PLA animation festival, Ethno Jazz Beskidy and Bielska Jesień. The city is also developing activities aimed at younger audiences, including outdoor projects, neighbourhood initiatives and events in various districts.

Photo: Paweł Sowa, Bielsko-Biała City Hall Press Office

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