English Section

Warsaw’s Independence March nears national stadium amid heightened security

11.11.2024 16:00
The annual Independence March in Warsaw, commemorating Poland’s Independence Day, began shortly before 3 p.m. from Dmowski Roundabout and is now crossing the Poniatowski Bridge en route to the grounds near the National Stadium.
Warsaws Independence March.
Warsaw's Independence March.Photo: PAP/Marcin Obara

Participants are carrying Polish flags and wearing red and white scarves and hats, accompanied by security barriers, police officers, and Independence March guards.

Leading the procession is a large banner displaying this year’s slogan: “The Power of Great Poland Is Us,” along with another reading “Catholic Poland, Not Secular.” Demonstrators are chanting patriotic slogans, including “Glory to the Heroes” and “God, Honor, and Fatherland,” as well as political chants. Flares and firecrackers are being set off along the route.

Pre-march detentions

Prior to the march, police detained 75 individuals carrying pyrotechnics and other prohibited items, including knives, telescopic batons, and brass knuckles, in compliance with Warsaw’s restrictions on pyrotechnics and weapons on Independence Day. A drone ban is also in effect over the march’s route.

Additional Independence Day celebrations are taking place across Warsaw. Krakowskie Przedmieście hosts the Independence Festival from morning until evening, while official state ceremonies occur at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Thousands are also participating in the 34th Independence Run, adding to the day’s patriotic events.

Meanwhile, in Poznań...

In contrast to the charged atmosphere in the capital, the western city of Poznań is celebrating a more festive tradition: the annual St. Martin’s Day parade, a vibrant procession intertwined with the city’s beloved delicacy, the St. Martin’s croissant.

Known as “the Pride of Poznań,” this hefty treat—layered with margarine, butter, white poppyseed, raisins, and almonds—is sold by the millions each year, with around 250 tons expected to be consumed on St. Martin’s Day alone.

The St. Martin’s croissant, a cultural symbol of Poznań, weighs in between 150 and 250 grams with an indulgent 1,200 calories each. This local treasure is protected by EU regulations, meaning only certified versions may carry the St. Martin’s name, underscoring its status as a regional culinary icon.

(jh)

Source: IAR, PAP, TVP