The whole world in one place – or the Beskid Culture Week in Wisła
Summer is a special season in the Beskids. It is a time that meets the needs of each of our guests - hiking enthusiasts, sports lovers, and people who enjoy various events. The Beskid Culture Week, Wiślaczek Country, Wisła Days, Harvest Festival, and Honey Festival are just a few cultural proposals that will make your stay in our town even more interesting.
The whole world in one place
One of the most important events in the summer calendar of Wisła, held for over 50 years always at the turn of July and August, is the Beskid Culture Week. This is the longest “week” in Europe, if not in the world, since it lasts... 9 days. On the stage of the Stanisław Hadyna amphitheater, but also on the small stage in the Wisła market square, folklore groups from all over the world perform - you can embark on a unique journey through countries close or even neighboring and completely exotic. You can admire the perfectionism of former Soviet Union countries, the Balkan liveliness, marvel at Asian folklore, and admire performances from the Faroe Islands, Indonesia. Every year organizers invite groups from very diverse corners of the world, but groups from neighboring Czech Republic and Slovakia also have their place in the program. You can also get to know and appreciate the diversity of Polish folklore. Often, by watching various performances, you can see the richness of dances, customs, and costumes characteristic of each region of our country.
The Beskid Culture Week is also a true celebration for the inhabitants of Wisła, who come together “for culture.” Around the amphitheater, stands with regional cuisine appear, where the highlights are sheet cakes with bacon, cream or sugar, ribs, but also grilled dishes; among drinks, the Wisła honey liqueur is highly recommended. Stalls with local products appear. At Hoffa Square, there is a craft fair - you can buy jewelry, lace, wooden products, paintings. Above all, it is an opportunity to meet, feast together, and integrate. Various accompanying events take place alongside the main event. One of the biggest attractions is the colorful parade opening the event, passing through the center of Wisła.
For mobile people, we recommend a trip to the Czech Jabłonków for the Gorol Fest - one of the accompanying events. It takes place in the so-called Zaolzie, an area with a large Polish minority. The Beskid Culture Week was born in Wisła as a continuation of the pre-war Mountain Festival, and today it takes place simultaneously in Żywiec, Szczyrk, Oświęcim, and Maków Podhalański. Accompanying events occur, among others, in Bielsko-Biała, Ujsoły, Istebna. If possible, even for a day, it is worth visiting one of these towns during that time and comparing the atmosphere. In our opinion, each place has its own character, but the best is at the source, in Wisła.
In a country atmosphere
For over 20 years, country music lovers have been coming to Wisła. Wiślaczek Country takes place in August and brings motorcyclists here, specifically true Harley riders. The event’s highlight is the parade opening the event - an impressive display of vehicles and owners' outfits. In the city center, you can not only hear music but also see all the attributes characteristic of this community. At the stands, you can get essential clothing elements - definitely a hat, but much more is available. Musical performances are held at the amphitheater, but participants are also invited to integrate and dance together after the performances end. A wide gastronomic offer is available.
Wisła Days, Harvest Festival, and Honey Festival
The summer season ends with Wisła Days, combined with the harvest festival and honey festival. Although Wisła has had city rights for 65 years, the harvest festival is a custom that refers to rural and resort town times, showing attachment to highlander culture. We recommend our guests to participate and learn about the rituals related to giving thanks for the harvest collected in the summer. Since in recent years you can also see a return to shepherding traditions in Wisła, this is the time to taste and buy sheep products - from bundz and bryndza cheeses to the popular oscypek available throughout the year. It is also an opportunity to taste various kinds of honey served in different forms - including liqueurs and alcoholic drinks.
The mentioned events, like any others held in Wisła or nearby, can be an attraction in themselves, an occasion or excuse to go to the Beskids. They can also be an addition to a vacation or weekend getaway. The location of our center allows you to draw strength both from nature - nearby forests, meadows, and tourist trails, as well as from attractions offered by Wisła as a tourist town - we are located about 2.5 km from the city center.
FAQ
When does the Beskid Culture Week take place in Wisła?
The Beskid Culture Week takes place every year at the turn of July and August and lasts 9 days. It is the biggest folklore event in the region, with participation of groups from all over the world.
What distinguishes the Wiślaczek Country festival?
It is an August event for lovers of country music and Harley-Davidson motorcycles. It features an impressive motorcyclists' parade, concerts at the amphitheater, and joint dances.
What can be seen during Wisła Days and the Honey Festival?
Wisła Days combine traditional harvest festivals with tasting regional products such as sheep cheeses and honey and showcase local highlander customs.
Why is it worth spending the summer in Wisła?
Summer in Wisła is a combination of mountain hikes, cultural events, and regional flavors. It is an ideal destination for a vacation or a weekend in the Beskids.
Rest in the mountains!
Accommodation with meals and a pool is waiting for you at the Beskidy Holiday House in Wisła.