Opening of the World Indoor Championships with a colorful parade and concert (photos and video)

A vibrant parade marched through the streets of Toruń’s Old Town. The procession combined local tradition and history with the international spirit of sport.

The event was part of the World Athletics Indoor Championships Kujawy Pomorze 2026 and at the same time showcased the cultural heritage of the Kujawy and Pomorze region.

The parade was preceded by a performance from a five-member group of drummers moving between the fan zone at Nowy Rynek and the Old Town Square. A brass band led the procession, followed by folk ensembles and traditional bands dressed in regional costumes.

“We’ve got it! The World Athletics Championships! We’ve been organizing them for many months. With pride, we pass the baton forward. Across the entire Kujawy and Pomorze region, through 50 towns, a symbolic relay connected diverse social groups in a shared celebration of sport. Today we promote our region and support our athletes: 32 competitors, including five representing our region. Enjoy yourselves and give it your all!” said Piotr Całbecki.

Historical figures were also present—Nicolaus Copernicus appeared alongside townspeople styled as historic residents. They were joined by Toruń gingerbread makers and large-scale decorations inspired by the city’s symbols, including giant gingerbreads decorated with athletics motifs and the regional logo.

The parade also featured circus performers—stilt walkers portraying royal figures and jesters—as well as the traditional Marzanna effigy symbolizing the end of winter and the arrival of spring. Two impressive 3.5-meter puppets, designed especially for the event in a style referencing the championships, were also presented. Sports clubs representing various disciplines—from athletics to speedway, volleyball, rowing, and cycling—took part in the procession.

An integral part of the event is a three-day food zone at Nowy Rynek, where local producers and rural women’s associations present regional dishes—from goose specialties, sour rye soup, dumplings, and to vegetarian options. Visitors can taste and purchase products, while the space is decorated with flowers, wreaths, and colorful ribbons. Workshops on making spring wreaths are also available.

Szeroka Street, the parade route, was decorated with the flags of participating countries. The event brought together athletes, regional authorities, invited guests, residents, tourists, and fans from abroad.

Concert to open the championships

The opening ceremonies were enhanced by a special concert titled “Sprint to the Stars” held at the Old Town Square in Toruń. The stage featured internationally and nationally renowned artists such as Ray Wilson, Oskar Cyms, and Gromee.

The event was not only a musical spectacle but also an opportunity to meet legends of Polish athletics. Among those appearing on stage were pole vaulters Anna Rogowska and Paweł Wojciechowski, high jump world record holder Jacek Wszoła, and sprinters Marian Woronin and Marcin Urbaś. The meetings and discussions were hosted by Agata Konarska.

A unique exhibition

The championships are accompanied by an open-air exhibition titled “Relays of Kujawy and Pomorze. 50 Days of a Shared Journey.” It presents the story of a symbolic relay that began on January 30 and, over 50 days, connected municipalities across the region.

Along Queen Jadwiga Street (leading to the fan zone), boards display photographs documenting the remarkable relay. The symbolic baton traveled 6,100 kilometers, passing from hand to hand—from students and young athletes to coaches, seniors, and people with disabilities.

Available from the opening day of the championships, the exhibition tells a story of community, energy, and passion that carried Kujawy and Pomorze onto the global sporting stage.

Beata Krzemińska
Spokesperson for the Marshal’s Office

March 20, 2026