If you’re in Krakow around Easter, and wondering what to do- there are so many special events happening at this time- just check out our guide. But if you’re here the Tuesday after Easter Sunday- you better stop by Kopiec Krakus for some medieval fun!
What is the Rękawka Festival?
The legend says that King Krak himself is buried under the Krakus Mound, and that his loyal subjects built the hill (with some of the best views of Krakow btw) by bringing sleeves full of dirt to the site. And every year on the Tuesday after Easter, this site transforms into a medieval village- where groups of knights gather to battle it out on the battlefield, among other cultural events. Essentially Rękawka pays tribute to the forefathers of the city- and comes from potentially hundreds of hundreds of years ago. Originally a Pagan Ritual- this event in modern times has come to be associated with Easter. And while centuries ago it was celebrated by rolling eggs and money down the hill as an offering to the dead, it has now turned into something completely different. You can go to sample food from medieval times, watch craftsmen from this era, play some games (if you’re a kid), or watch the main event- a battle of the knights!
Where exactly is the Rękawka event?
For this festival you’ll head to the Krakus Mound- a visit to this famous burial mound is worth it, festival or not, and while technically you could walk from the city center- that would take about an hour. So it’s probably best to hop on a tram or hail an Uber/Bolt.
Once you are at the mound- you’ll see the event is set up at the bottom and all around the area. Just follow the crowds of people.
What is the schedule for Rękawka like?
Early in the day you can stop by and visit all the set-ups of those who have decided to spend a day in times of old. Many set-ups have something to sell, that’s been handcrafted in the ways of old as well.
Later in the afternoon, you can climb the mound to overlook the battlefield and see the fights! When the re-enactment of the battle between the Vistulans and foreign invaders starts, you won’t want to miss it. Ambulances surround the battlefield- as this is a serious event!
@krakowexplorers 500 Things to do in Krakow (85/500): Head back to medieval times on Kopiec Krakus for Rękawka. For this festival you’ll head to the Krakus Mound- a visit to this famous burial mound is worth it, festival or not, but if you’re here the Tuesday after Easter you’re in for a treat. The legend says that King Krak himself is buried under this mound, and that his loyal subjects built this mound by bringing sleeves full of dirt to the site. And every year on the Tuesday after Easter, this site transforms into a medieval village- where groups of knights gather to battle it out on the battlefield. Early in the day you can stop by and visit all the set-ups of those who have decided to spend a day in times of old. Many set-ups have something to sell, that’s been handcrafted in the ways of old as well. And there are plenty of activities for kids. Later in the afternoon, you can climb the mound to overlook the battlefield and see the fights! When the re-enactment of the battle between the Vistulans and foreign invaders starts, you won’t want to miss it. Ambulances surround the battlefield- as this is a serious event! An event like this actually began almost 1000 years ago, maybe even more, and even though its schedule over the centurie has changed, it still remains good fun even now. Great food, live music, and reenactments make it a full day of excitement. Check with the Podgorze Cultural Centre for the official schedule of events for this year. #krakow #thingstodoinkrakow #krakoweastermarket #krakowexplorers #krakowfreewalkingtours #freewalkingtourskrakow #rekawka #rękawka #easterinkrakow
An event like this actually began almost 1000 years ago, maybe even more, and even though its schedule over the centuries has changed, it still remains good fun even now. Great food, live music, and reenactments make it a full day of fun.
Check with the Podgorze Cultural Centre for the official schedule of events for this year.
