The St. Jacob's Fair is underway. Over 200 exhibitors

This is the 16th edition of an event that has become a permanent fixture in Szczecin's local tradition. Starting Thursday (July 24th), the St. James' Fair, organized by the Roman Catholic Parish of St. James the Apostle, has been held in the Old Town (specifically, in Cathedral Square). The fair harks back to an old Polish tradition, during which, on the feast day of the Parish Church, after religious ceremonies, a pilgrimage, and Holy Mass, pilgrims enjoyed a colorful fair. The patron saint of this event is St. James, who has been protecting Cathedral Hill since the 8th century. Ethnologist Bogdan Matławski discussed the significance of St. James' Fair in Polish tradition and its concept: "The most important event of the fair, and indeed its culmination, is the indulgence Mass celebrated in the Archcathedral Basilica. The non-liturgical dimension of St. James' Fair is also extremely attractive." It turned out that the form of shared and personal prayer, religious celebration, trading, and shared good times was expected and accepted by the residents. One could say that beauty comes from within, as evidenced by the blend of tradition and modernity. This is evidence of the historical connection between economic, cultural, and religious-ecclesiastical enterprises, which remains attractive today. Numerous exhibitors, among whom folk artists, creators of the region's culinary heritage, folk groups, and craftsmen play a significant role, create the unique atmosphere of the fair. Importantly, they are not "add-ons," as in the case of other cultural events, but rather the "heart, soul, and body" of this event, invited to work for the glory of God Himself. The St. James's Fair in Szczecin offers an opportunity not only for commercial ventures but also a forum for meetings between artists from across the region, from various artistic fields, people who have not lost their sensitivity to the things of God. It is said that beauty is bestowed only by those who possess it.

Over 200 exhibitors

As every year, you can purchase a wealth of handicrafts and artistic products. Artists from both the region and other parts of the country exhibit here. There are numerous stalls selling toys, souvenirs, and trinkets, including those inspired by Szczecin's local landmarks and local traditions. The food court is dominated by grilled dishes—not just sausages or shashlik—but also game. There's no shortage of treats: candies, ice cream, and desserts. Many stalls offer regional food products: honey, wine, liqueurs, cold cuts, baked goods, and much more. The most appealing stalls for children are, of course, the toy stalls, dominated by the popular and viral Labubu mascots (or rather, cheaper imitations). Artisan exhibitors often offer highly original products—icons, sculptures, and ceramics—in short, items you can't find in everyday stores. Antiques are available for collectors of antiques, while bouquets and wreaths of dried flowers are available for lovers of plants and unique decorations. It's also worth visiting St. James's Fair for the fun itself. Organizers have prepared attractions for children: entertainment, inflatable slides, and eco-games with a clown in the so-called Educational Ecozone. Various organizations also have their stands, including the Voivodeship Fund for Environmental Protection and Water Management, the Szczecin Municipal Police Headquarters, the Landscape Park Complex, and many others. St. James's Fair is not only entertainment but also a religious event. Every day, a mass is held at Szczecin Cathedral and a St. James retreat is held. The program also includes a tour of the cathedral with Małgorzata Duda (dedicated to children) and an organ performance – also for the youngest. In the evening (at 7:00 PM), a tour of the cathedral with Ludmiła Kopycińska is planned. It's worth noting that St. James is always open to the faithful.

Aleksandra Juchniewicz and the Szczecin Region Song and Dance Ensemble "Krąg" will perform on the stage set up in Cathedral Square today, and a disco is also planned for the evening.

The St. James' Fair will last until Sunday. It will begin with a morning Mass. Among the attractions will be the Educational Ecozone and artistic performances. At 1:30 PM, there will be a Flauto Barocco concert, followed by an accordion and guitar concert by Mateusz Gucik accompanied by Mateusz Badura, a concert by Active Music, and a concert by Backstage. On Sunday, a drawing will also be held to determine the winner of a pilgrimage to Mexico. At 9:00 PM, a Mass dedicated to the exhibitors will conclude this year's St. James' Fair.

Agata Jankowska