The festive atmosphere has already arrived at the Presidential Palace thanks to students of the State Secondary School of Fine Arts in Zakopane. Young artists from the Podhale region prepared decorations inspired by local traditions.
The First Lady, Marta Nawrocka, together with the students and teachers of the Zakopane art school, decorated the Christmas tree, which will become one of the symbols of the upcoming holidays at the Presidential Palace.
Highlander Tradition at the Presidential Palace
The decorations prepared by the students, who specialize in various fields of art – from graphic design, artistic furniture-making, and woodcarving, to violin-making and artistic textiles – were handcrafted using simple materials: paper, wood, and colorful yarn. Each ornament refers to the rich traditions of Zakopane and the Podhale region.
“It is wonderful that you are preserving the traditions of your little homeland in such an exceptional way. Thanks to your imagination, all the employees and guests of the Palace, including international visitors, will be able to admire decorations inspired by Polish folk art,” said Marta Nawrocka during the ceremony.
During the event, there was time not only for decorating the Christmas tree, but also for Highlander singing and dancing!
150 Years of Artistic Education
The State Secondary School of Fine Arts in Zakopane has an extraordinary history. The school was founded in 1876 on the initiative of the Tatra Society to support the impoverished Highlander population and develop local craftsmanship and artistic industry. Over the years, the institution has grown into one of the most important art schools in Poland, educating generations of talented artists. Among its graduates are outstanding creators and educators, as well as professors and presidents of renowned art academies in Poland and abroad.
In 2026, the school will celebrate its 150th anniversary of its activity. The honorary patronage of the event has been taken by President Karol Nawrocki, emphasizing the significance of the institution for Polish culture and artistic education.
The Christmas tree decorated by the Zakopane students will remain in the Presidential Palace throughout the holiday season, serving as tangible proof that regional traditions and young talent can beautifully complement one another.