St.Dominic’s Fair

The biggest open-air trade and cultural event in Poland is on in Gdansk! St.Dominic’s Fair attracts tourists from all over Poland as well as from abroad.

Over 750 years of tradition

The history of the Fair goes back to the year 1260, when Pope Alexander IV established it in the decree. It had been organized annually for the centuries until the outbreak of the Second World War. Because of that, the Fair disappeared for 33 years. Its reactivation occured in 1972 and since then, every year, about 1000 merchants, artists and collectors take part in it. About 70,000 people visit the event daily, although the number usually doubles at weekends. As the organizers declare over 5 million people come and go through the Old Town of Gdańsk during each St. Dominic’s Fair. It is worth mentioning that in 2007 the number increased to 8.5 milion.

Location

The event takes place in the Gdansk’s Old Town. However, there are specific locations for different attractions. For example on the Długi Targ you will find craft articles, jewellery, souvenirs and artists’ stalls.  If you fancy trying traditional Polish cuisine you should visit Targ Węglowy, Targ Rybny and Szeroka Streets. The main page of the St.Dominic’s Fair contains map and guide to download, check it out here: http://jarmarkdominika.pl/en/h

Attractions

What people enjoy the most about the Fair, is its special atmosphere and the fact that it is an outdoor event. During 3 weeks you can explore wide range of stalls full of antiques, works of art and handmade products. There is also a great opportunity to taste Polish dishes like dumplings, sheep cheese or farmhouse bread with lard and dill pickles. Don’t forget to attend concerts, demonstration of fireworks and laser lights, street parades and sport events.