As autumn sweeps through Poland, the 17th Gdańsk Dance Festival 2025 invites dancers, choreographers, and art lovers to the vibrant city of Gdańsk. Set for September 21-28, 2025, this week-long event celebrates contemporary dance, bringing together performers from Poland and beyond. Held in the historic venues of Klub Żak and other cultural spaces, the festival offers a stage for bold creativity, connection, and inspiration in a city rich with history and charm.
A Celebration of Dance and Creativity
Since its start, the Gdańsk Dance Festival has grown into a key event for contemporary dance in Europe, organized by Klub Żak, a cultural institution in Gdańsk. The festival is a platform for professional dancers and emerging artists to showcase their work, share ideas, and connect with audiences. The 2025 edition, running from September 21-28, promises to bring together hundreds of dance enthusiasts for performances, workshops, and competitions that highlight the power of movement.
Set in Gdańsk’s cultural heart, the festival creates a warm, open space where dance takes center stage. From solo performances to group choreography, it embraces diverse styles, making every show a unique exploration of art and emotion.
The Site: Gdańsk’s Cultural Venues
The festival unfolds across multiple venues, with Klub Żak as the main hub. This cultural center, located at ul. Grunwaldzka 197, hosts major performances and the Solo Dance Contest, a highlight of the event. Other historic theatres and studio spaces in Gdańsk may also feature shows, offering intimate settings for experimental works and larger stages for dynamic productions.
Between performances, attendees can explore Gdańsk’s old town, with its cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and waterfront views along the Motława River. Local cafes serve pierogi, żurek, and other Polish delights, adding to the festival’s welcoming vibe. The layout encourages attendees to wander, discover new performances, and soak in the city’s unique atmosphere.
A Line-up of Bold Performances
The 17th Gdańsk Dance Festival shines with its diverse program, featuring professional dance companies, solo artists, and student performers. The 2025 line-up includes major productions like “Full Moon” by Josef Nadj on September 28, “The Island” by Burkicom on September 27, and “Cultus” by Compagnia Zappalà Danza on September 26, all at 7:00 PM. The Solo Dance Contest, held from September 22-25, will showcase new talents, with selected solos competing for prizes judged by an international jury of dance experts.
Past festivals featured innovative choreography and emotional performances, and 2025 will continue this tradition with a focus on contemporary dance that explores themes of identity, culture, and human connection. Workshops and lectures, running from September 22-28, offer hands-on learning in choreography, movement techniques, and dance theory, making the festival a hub for growth and inspiration.
Days and Nights of Dance
Days at the festival are filled with energy. Mornings and afternoons feature workshops and lectures where participants learn from professional dancers and choreographers. The Solo Dance Contest takes place during these days, showcasing short, powerful performances by artists over 18 from Poland and abroad. Audiences can watch these emerging talents compete in an intimate setting, followed by discussions with performers.
Evenings bring headline performances at Klub Żak, where major dance companies present full-length works. The atmosphere is electric yet welcoming, with audiences drawn into the stories told through movement. After shows, post-performance talks allow viewers to connect with artists, fostering a sense of community. Social events, like meet-and-greets, add to the festival’s warm, collaborative spirit.
A Festival Built on Shared Passion
The Gdańsk Dance Festival is more than a series of performances, it’s a celebration of art and connection. Organized by Klub Żak, a municipal cultural institution, it values creativity over commercialism. The festival includes workshops, open discussions, and networking events that help dancers and choreographers grow their skills and build international ties.
The event supports Gdańsk’s local economy by partnering with nearby cafes, restaurants, and vendors. It also promotes sustainability by encouraging eco-friendly practices, like minimizing waste at venues. The schedule balances performances with time for exploration, giving attendees a chance to connect with each other and the city.
Reflecting on Gdańsk Dance Festival 2024
The 2024 festival was a vibrant success, with standout moments including a breathtaking solo performance that won the Solo Dance Contest and a workshop series that inspired participants to push their creative boundaries. Audiences praised the festival’s intimate atmosphere and the chance to see both established and emerging artists. These successes set a high bar for 2025, with plans to expand the program and include more international performers.
Planning Your Visit
Tickets for the 17th Gdańsk Dance Festival are available through Klub Żak’s box office or online at tickets.klubzak.com.pl. Prices are affordable, with discounts for students, seniors, and groups. Single-show tickets and festival passes are offered, but seats are limited and not numbered, so early booking is recommended. Contact kasa@klubzak.com.pl or call +58 344 05 73 for reservations, which must be paid within five days.
Gdańsk is easy to reach by plane, train, or car, with its international airport and central train station connecting to major cities. Festival venues are near the city center, and attendees can stay in budget hostels, cozy guesthouses, or hotels in Gdańsk’s old town. Arriving early lets you explore the city’s historic sites and enjoy the festival’s opening events.
Why Gdańsk Dance Festival Stands Out
In a world of large-scale events, the Gdańsk Dance Festival feels refreshingly authentic. It skips corporate branding and focuses on the art of dance, bringing together performers and audiences in a shared love of movement. The Solo Dance Contest gives young artists a chance to shine, while major performances inspire with their creativity and depth.
The festival’s intimate venues and community focus make it special. Whether you’re watching a solo performance, joining a workshop, or chatting with a dancer after a show, you’ll feel part of something meaningful. It’s about art, connection, and the joy of discovery.
Exploring Gdańsk’s Charm
Outside festival hours, Gdańsk offers endless delights. Visitors can stroll through the old town’s historic streets, visit the iconic St. Mary’s Church, or walk along the Motława River. Local markets sell amber jewelry and handmade crafts, while restaurants serve hearty Polish dishes like bigos and herring. A trip to the nearby Baltic Sea coast or a visit to the Gdańsk Shipyard adds depth to the experience, making the city a perfect festival setting.
A Stage for Movement and Connection
The 17th Gdańsk Dance Festival 2025 is more than an event, it’s a celebration of dance, creativity, and community. Set in the heart of Gdańsk’s cultural scene, it offers a chance to witness bold performances, learn from artists, and connect in a city full of history and warmth. Whether you’re a dance lover or a curious traveler, this festival invites you to move, feel, and carry its energy long after the final performance ends.
Zond