Christmas in Zakopane: markets, ice rinks, sleigh rides, and traditions

Every winter, the Polish city of Zakopane turns into a true Christmas realm. Nestled at the foot of the Tatra Mountains and often called Poland’s winter capital, it’s far more than a playground for skiers. In the cold months, the place takes on a storybook glow: lights strung along the streets, the scent of pine and spices, street musicians, and a buoyant holiday spirit that’s hard to resist.

And even if a trip isn’t on the cards, you can still catch that seasonal feeling from afar.

Christmas market: food, lights, and coziness

The heart of the festivities is Independence Square, right by Krupówki Street. This is where the market runs from early December to early January.

Here you can pick up all the staples for good cheer: warm oscypek cheese, fragrant honey, mulled wine, and sweets. Stalls are dressed with fir boughs and strung with twinkling lights, while the air carries the resinous whisper of spruce and spices. It’s Christmas through and through.

Open-air ice rinks

Several rinks pop up in Zakopane each winter. The most athletic sits at the COS Center, with real speed-skating lanes. In the city center, Tafla brings the glow and an urban vibe. And if mountain views are the goal, U Daniela is the spot.

Each offers a distinct mood—anything from sporty to quietly romantic.

Sleigh rides with a touch of old-world charm

One of Zakopane’s standout winter traditions is the horse-drawn sleigh ride known as a kulig. They set off in the evenings: sleighs with bells, hot drinks, bonfires, and an easy, festive buzz.

Once reserved for the nobility, today it’s a simple pleasure for anyone seeking a dash of winter-night magic.

A night walk and a holiday service

There’s a quieter way to spend Christmas night: walk to a small chapel in the forest, where a midnight service is held. Many bring lanterns or candles. Snow creaks underfoot; around you, hush and scattered lights. It’s a calm, beautiful way to welcome the holiday.

Krupówki Street: the hub of winter life

Krupówki is the city’s main artery, and in winter it’s especially lively. Lights everywhere, carousels, street concerts, people in festive dress. Locals sing carols, play violins, and sell souvenirs, cheese, and hot drinks. It’s easy to feel folded into the celebration.

Home traditions and music

In Poland, Christmas isn’t only about markets. It’s also candlelit family dinners called Wigilia, and traditional carols sung at home and on the streets. In Zakopane it feels especially heartfelt: people sing loudly, sincerely, and straight from the heart.

How to capture the mood without leaving home

Even without a trip to Poland, you can channel Zakopane at home. Put on highlander Christmas music, brew tea with honey and cinnamon, look up photos of Krupówki, or try making oscypek cheese. Small touches like these go a long way toward a festive mood.