On Friday, May 9, 2025, the vibrant streets of Rzeszów came alive as the city kicked off the 30th edition of "Rzeszowskie Juwenalia 2025," a celebration that has become a staple in the local cultural calendar. The event commenced at the Main Square, where students from various universities gathered to partake in a colorful parade that marked the official start of the festivities.
Starting at 2 PM, students began to assemble at the Main Square, dressed in a myriad of costumes that showcased their creativity and spirit. By 4 PM, the parade set off, heading towards Poznańska and Akademicka streets, with the route carefully designed to minimize disruption to local traffic. The Rzeszów police urged caution and understanding from motorists, ensuring that the parade, which spanned approximately 3.5 kilometers, would not cause significant delays.
The new parade route, which took about 50 minutes to complete, followed Słowackiego Street, Szopena Street, and proceeded along the picturesque Wisłok River, before concluding at the main gate of the Rzeszów University of Technology campus. This year, participants reveled in the opportunity to explore different parts of the city, showcasing their enthusiasm and camaraderie.
"This is my third parade, and I always have a great time. The new route is a good idea; we get to show our craziness in different parts of the city," said Paweł, a computer science student at the Rzeszów University of Technology, expressing excitement about the event.
The parade was not just a procession but a vibrant display of energy, with students embodying various characters from pop culture, historical figures, and even fantastical beings. The atmosphere was electric, drawing the attention of onlookers who cheered and took photos as the parade passed by.
As the parade reached its destination, the official Juwenalia days commenced, promising two days filled with concerts and cultural events. This year’s lineup featured nearly 40 artists and bands performing on three stages, including well-known names such as Lady Pank, Ich Troje, and Kult, with performances starting at 6:30 PM and continuing until after midnight.
"I'm here for the first time and already regret missing out on this excitement before! I'm especially looking forward to Kortez, I came to Rzeszów just for him," revealed Michał, a second-year Polish studies student at the University of Rzeszów.
To accommodate the influx of attendees, the city has increased public transportation services. Bus lines 0A and 0B will run every 15 minutes from 4 PM to 4 AM, while night buses N1, N2, and N3 will operate approximately every 30 minutes from 8 PM to 4 AM on both days of the event. This initiative aims to facilitate easy access to the campus, which is expected to welcome a similar number of participants as last year’s event, where over 80,000 people celebrated.
In preparation for the festivities, organizers emphasized the importance of safety and cooperation with local authorities, medical services, and volunteers. The event is not only a celebration for students but also serves as a platform for community integration, fostering a sense of unity among the local populace.
For those attending, it is essential to exchange their tickets for wristbands at designated points known as "opaskownie." This process is crucial for those holding multi-day passes, as wristbands are required for entry to the campus grounds. The opaskownie will be operational from May 5 to May 8 for early pickups and will be available from 12 PM on May 9.
Moreover, attendees are reminded that single-entry tickets do not require wristbands and can be scanned directly at the entrance. This system is designed to streamline the entry process and minimize wait times, allowing participants to enjoy the festivities without unnecessary delays.
As Rzeszów transforms into a hub of music and celebration over the weekend, the atmosphere promises to be one of joy and excitement. With a diverse array of performances scheduled, attendees can look forward to a memorable experience filled with music, laughter, and community spirit. The organizers have clearly stated that the event will respect public spaces and ensure a safe environment for all participants.
In summary, "Rzeszowskie Juwenalia 2025" not only celebrates the vibrant student life but also showcases the rich cultural tapestry of Rzeszów. With its new parade route, an impressive lineup of artists, and enhanced public transport options, this year's event is set to be a grand spectacle that honors tradition while embracing innovation.
