As the 234th anniversary of the Constitution of May 3 approaches, communities across Poland are gearing up for a series of celebrations that honor this pivotal moment in history. The Constitution, adopted in 1791, was the first in Europe and the second modern constitution in the world, symbolizing the aspirations for freedom, sovereignty, and social justice. This year, events will take place in various towns, including Brzeg Dolny, Wińsko, Wołów, Nowy Sącz, and Końskie, bringing together citizens to reflect on national identity and heritage.
In Brzeg Dolny, the festivities will commence on May 3, 2025, at 9:00 a.m. with a ceremonial gathering at the monument in the market square. Participants will lay flowers in tribute to the creators of the Constitution, honoring their courage and wisdom in strengthening the Republic and improving the lives of citizens.
Meanwhile, in Wińsko, the celebrations will kick off at 1:00 p.m. with a mass held at the Church of the Holy Trinity. Following the service, at 1:45 p.m., the Harfa band will perform a concert of patriotic songs to uplift spirits. A march featuring a white and red flag is scheduled for 2:15 p.m., leading to the monuments dedicated to the Fallen for the Freedom of the Homeland and the Unknown Soldier, where delegations will lay flowers at 2:20 p.m.
In Wołów, the day’s events will start with a solemn mass at 11:30 a.m. in the Church of St. Charles Borromeo. Residents will then gather at 12:30 p.m. at the monument to the Heroes of the Polish Army for official celebrations, fostering a sense of community and shared pride.
Not to be outdone, Nowy Sącz will transform Miasteczko Galicyjskie into a vibrant center for Constitution Day celebrations starting at 2:00 p.m. The program includes a joint singing of the national anthem and the ceremonial hoisting of the national flag, featuring students from the Władysław Orkan School Complex in Marcinkowice. The Brass Band from Piwniczna-Zdrój will provide patriotic music, while majorettes from the ARVA team will showcase their skills. A special performance titled "Polish Nobility – May 1791!" by the Ladies and Hussars Association will take attendees on a historical journey at 3:45 p.m.
In addition to the performances, an open-air exhibition titled "The Last May 3, 1946" will be displayed in front of the Nowy Sącz town hall from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., allowing visitors to engage with the historical significance of the day. Workshops for children, titled "White and Red" and creative activities for Mother's Day will also be available, ensuring that the celebrations are inclusive for all ages.
Końskie is also set to host a grand celebration, inviting everyone to partake in the 234th anniversary of the Constitution of May 3. The day will begin at 11:00 a.m. with a solemn mass for the Homeland at the Collegiate Church of St. Nicholas. Following the mass, participants will march to Kościuszko Square, where the national flag will be hoisted at 12:15 p.m. A patriotic program titled "God, Honor and Homeland" will be presented by students from the Educational Institutions Complex from Rogów, emphasizing the importance of this historical event for Poland.
The celebrations will also feature a swearing-in ceremony for students of the uniformed classes from the Vocational Training Center, culminating in a parade. At 2:15 p.m., the Stanisław Małachowski March-Run will commence at the stadium on Sportowa Street, inviting participants to engage in physical activity while celebrating their heritage. The day will conclude with a concert by the "Warsaw Dance Combo" group at the Końskie market square at 4:30 p.m.
Moreover, from May 1, an exhibition titled "The Constitution of May 3 – an Act and Symbol of Sovereignty" will be on display in the Końskie market square, allowing residents to delve deeper into the historical context and significance of the Constitution.
In addition to these local celebrations, the Water Authority Regional Water Management Board in Wrocław has issued a statement concerning the water levels in the Nysa reservoir on the Nysa Kłodzka river, highlighting the importance of maintaining environmental safety during this festive period.
As these communities come together to celebrate the Constitution of May 3, they reflect not only on the historical significance of this day but also on the values that shape their national identity. The events planned across Poland serve as a reminder of the courage of those who fought for freedom and the ongoing journey toward sovereignty and justice for all.