The Lajkonik is one of Krakow’s most recognisable characters — a colourful rider on a hobby horse, parading with a band and a lively retinue. For many families it’s a wonderful chance to show children a living tradition: costumes, music and a folk story that over centuries became a city custom.
The legend’s message is simple and spectacular: elements of theatre, music and interaction with the audience (for example a gentle tap from the mace that is said to bring “good luck”) mean even the youngest watch with fascination. The mix of play and history makes the Lajkonik a unique family attraction.
For parents it’s also a moment to tell children about Krakow — its legends, rites and the ways the city celebrates its customs. A short, colourful story before you go will make kids more engaged and calmer in crowded moments.
Remember that the Lajkonik is an annual event held during the Octave of Corpus Christi — when planning a family visit to Krakow, check the exact date and schedule the day so the procession becomes a natural highlight of your trip.
The Lajkonik procession traditionally takes place during the Octave of Corpus Christi and travels from the Zwierzyniec area toward the Main Market Square. The route usually starts near the organisers’ base around Senatorska Street, goes via Plac Na Stawach and into the Norbertine convent courtyard, then continues toward the city centre and the Market Square.
The event runs during daytime — the procession typically begins in the early afternoon, with the climax and final performances (the Lajkonik’s dance, the presentation of the tribute) later on at the Main Market Square. In practice this means large crowds, especially near the centre, so arrive early if you want a good spot with children.
In some locations the pageant pauses for short staged scenes and meetings with kids — these are moments worth planning into your day. Check the local event programme a few days before arrival, as organisers sometimes announce extra presentations, contests for children or performances in the convent courtyard.
The best viewing spots are stretches where the procession makes short stops or performs scenes — for example by the Norbertine convent or on squares where the band and the Lajkonik perform the dance. These spots give better visibility and are less stressful for the little ones than the crowded Market Square.
If you have a stroller, head for wide pavements and open squares; avoid narrow streets where the crowd is hard to move through. Parts of the route have cobblestones and uneven ground, so strollers with larger wheels will be more comfortable. Remember to park the stroller in a safe place during the climax — it’s easy to get jostled in dense crowds.
A good approach is to pick a spot slightly set back from the main stream of spectators — this gives children space to move and protects them from excessive pushing. Bring a small blanket or a portable child seat — little ones often want to sit, and not having a place to do so increases stress.
Good preparation will make the day more comfortable for the whole family. I recommend packing: water, light snacks, wet wipes, sunscreen, hats for the children and a small first-aid kit with plasters. On the day it can be hard to return quickly to your hotel, so it’s best to be self-sufficient.
If you plan to take many photos, bring a power bank — phones drain quickly during long events. For the youngest, consider hearing protection headphones — the music and cheering can be loud and tiring for sensitive ears.
Dress children in bright, easily recognisable clothes — it’s easier to spot them in a crowd. In hot weather choose light fabrics; when it’s cooler, use layers so you can quickly adjust to temperature changes.
The procession attracts large groups of spectators — it’s part of the charm but also a challenge. Agree on a simple emergency plan with your children: a meeting point (for example a distinctive lamppost or café), a parent’s phone number and a rule to hold hands. For preschoolers consider placing a small emergency contact card in a pocket.
Pay attention to stewards and public announcements — organisers often mark zones where evacuation is easier or where first aid points are located. If a child gets scared or exhausted, move to a side street or a nearby green area to let them rest in a quieter environment.
Avoid backpacks with sharp objects on a child’s back — it’s easy to get caught on someone in a crowd. If you plan meetings with characters from the procession, encourage gentle contact and watch children’s reactions; not every child is ready for close interaction with a costumed performer.
Along the procession route and in its immediate vicinity there are often additional presentations, art contests or workshops organised by city institutions and museums. These are a great option to continue the day educationally — many activities are aimed directly at children.
Near Zwierzyniec, where the pageant starts, you’ll find pleasant spots for a walk or a picnic by the Vistula. After the procession ends in the centre, the Main Market Square and its surroundings offer plenty of choices — cafés, playgrounds within walking distance and museums with child-friendly exhibitions. Plan a break for ice cream or a warm meal — it’s an easy way to recharge after an exciting day.
If you want to learn more about the Lajkonik, visit local exhibitions about Krakow’s traditions or permanent museum displays that explain the city’s history and legends in an accessible way — a valuable addition, especially for older children curious about where city customs come from.
Before you go, prepare a short, simple story: the Lajkonik is a character from a legend tied to the bravery of local rafters, turning fear into joy. Instead of long lectures, use pictures, drawings or a short children’s video to spark interest in the characters and themes.
Ask questions: what do they like about the Lajkonik’s costume? Why do they think the mace is supposed to bring luck? Simple activities — drawing the Lajkonik after the event or making a small paper pageant together — will extend the experience and help fix memories. It’s also a nice keepsake from the trip.
Arrive earlier: even 30–60 minutes before the official start gives you a better spot, time to spread a blanket and to calmly prepare the children. Check the weather forecast and have a rain plan — umbrellas in a crowd can be awkward, lightweight rain ponchos are usually a better choice.
After the event plan a relaxed return to your hotel or a sit-down meal — public transport can be slower after big celebrations and taxis may be in high demand. If you have time, turn the day into a short neighbourhood stroll: nearby parks and cultural venues nicely round off the experience and allow kids to stretch their legs.
Most importantly: treat the procession as a shared, joyful adventure — a bit of noise, colour and rhythm creates memories children will keep for years. With a little planning and the right preparation the Lajkonik can become one of the most memorable highlights of a family visit to Krakow.
If you want to make a full family day of it, consider these nearby options: Wawel Royal Castle and its courtyard, the Dragon’s Den by Wawel (Smok Wawelski), the Planty park for a quiet stroll, and the Main Market Square (Rynek Główny) with the Cloth Hall (Sukiennice).
For child-friendly museums and activities try the Museum of Krakow branches, which often run workshops for children, or MOCAK and the Schindler’s Factory Museum for older kids interested in history. For a family meal or dessert, popular spots include Café Camelot (near the Jewish quarter), Mleczarnia in Kazimierz for a relaxed café atmosphere, and local ice-cream stands around the Market Square.
If you need to rest or let children play, look for small playgrounds near the Old Town or a picnic on the Vistula boulevards close to Zwierzyniec.
When exactly does the Lajkonik take place? It is held annually during the Octave of Corpus Christi — dates change every year, so check the current year’s calendar before you travel.
Is it suitable for very young children? Yes — many families attend, but choose less crowded viewing points, bring ear protection and plan places to rest.
Can the Lajkonik touch spectators? Traditionally the Lajkonik gently taps spectators with his mace and this is considered lucky. Teach children to accept or avoid contact according to their comfort.
Are there toilets and baby-changing facilities on the route? Public facilities are limited along the streets; use cafés, museums or public restrooms before the procession starts and plan short breaks.
What if we get separated? Agree on an obvious meeting point and keep a contact card in a child’s pocket. Identify nearby stewards or information points where lost-and-found help may be available.
