The tradition of Wianki in Poland actually has Slavic roots, the pagan rituals of which were repackaged as 'St. John's Eve' with the arrival of Christianity. Some of these pagan traditions are still in practise today, however, most notably the weaving of flower garlands which you will see worn by young maidens during this time. These garlands were then traditionally placed in the river (sometimes with candles) and floated downstream, where young men would attempt to capture them in hopes of capturing the interest of the young woman it belonged to. Each year during Wianki you can participate in a competition for the most beautiful flower garland, weaving one yourself at wianki stations set up along the Wisła riverbanks during the weekend.
Organised by the City of Kraków in cooperation with a wide range of other local institutions, Wianki is really a weekend cycle of events taking place all over the city, so check out the full Wianki programme here.
