The history of the fair

Did you know that the history of Christmas markets in Gdańsk dates back to the 17th century?

At that time, they took place near the historic parish church of the Main City of Gdańsk, now called the Ascension of the Blessed Virgin Mary, and commonly called St. Mary's Basilica. From the 19th century, the fairs were moved to the Artus Court.

Back then they were called Christmas Dominics. There were craftsmen presenting their works. After World War I, fairs were very similar to those we know from our times. They have become a place for social, culinary and, above all, pre-Christmas shopping.

Where did fair nutcrackers come from?

The fair's mascot, Mr. and Mrs. Orzechowski , i.e. the fair's nutcrackers, refer with their costumes to the uniforms of Gdańsk city soldiers from the 18th century, recreated by the Gdańsk Garnizon Association.

In the pre-partition times, the city maintained a permanent city garrison. Among the brave defenders of the city, there were musketeers and grenadiers in navy blue and white uniforms, artillerymen in navy blue, red and straw uniforms, cavalrymen in navy blue and straw uniforms, and the crew of the Wisłoujście Fortress wore red and white uniforms. They guarded the gates and ramparts of the city, and served as today's city guards and police. In 1734, they defended the Polish king Stanisław Leszczyński against the Russians and Saxons. In 1793 they fought against the Prussians.

Many Gdańsk residents placed life-size wooden figures of Gdańsk soldiers in their gardens.

Fair nutcrackers are a continuation of this custom from the times of the First Polish Republic. The Garnizon Gdańsk Association refers to these traditions. They are created by a group of people in love with old Gdańsk and its culture. They conduct scientific research, translate historical texts, and write popular science articles. They recreate Gdańsk cuisine, fashion and customs. They cooperate with many cultural institutions in Gdańsk, creating historical spectacles, shows and lectures. Since 2012, they have been organizing monthly shows of the Historic Changing of the Guard. In 2021, they were awarded the Lech Bądkowski award for their activities.