For the 83rd time, on the first Thursday of December, Cracovian nativity scene makers met at the foot of the Adam Mickiewicz monument to take part in the annual contest, and for the next few weeks their works can be seen at an exhibition at Krzysztofory Palace. This tradition has been upheld and nurtured by the Museum of Krakow, which joined forces with the City of Kraków and the KBF to give residents an opportunity to look for nativity scenes in the city spaces. This year, more than 30 fairytale designs can be seen in streets, squares and plazas, as well as in hotels, restaurants and shops. 16 of them are double-sided, two-metre-tall and eye-catching structures placed in illuminated showcases at various points around the city.
The importance of Cracovian nativity scenes, a unique tradition dating back to the 19th century, was highlighted in 2018 due to the first Polish entry on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage List. More nativity scene creators are regularly joining the multi-generational community, and the Museum of Krakow helps them with acquiring the necessary knowledge and skills. This year, the Museum offers the Nativity Scene Gem Grinding series, featuring meetings and workshops with the masters and a free video course. Supporting local talent is also the theme of this year's post-contest exhibition.
Enjoy the city in a festive mood and explore Cracovian nativity scenes with us.
Feel free to explore the All Around Nativity Scenes trail on our own (=> download a map) or take part in guided walks (in Polish) on: 13.12, 21.12, 10.01, 25.01 and 7.02 at 12 pm and 26.12 at 4 pm. The 10 PLN tickets will be available a week before the planned walks on kbf:bilety.
***
The annual contest for the most beautiful Krakow nativity scene will take place on December 4th. The competing nativity scenes will be on display at the contest exhibition at the Museum od Krakow at Krzysztofory Palace from December 8th, 2025, to March 1st, 2026.
