The venue stands out for its no-price-tag policy, alcohol-free environment, and a strict no-cell-phone rule.
"It's a place where people of different ages and views can meet in an atmosphere of openness and respect," Główczyński said.
The café’s name is inspired by the 2009 short film “The Butterfly Circus,” which tells the story of a disabled man who rediscovers his faith and purpose. Główczyński hopes the café will bring out the beauty in everyone and offer a welcoming space for those feeling lonely or marginalized.
What’s on the menu?
At Butterfly Circus, you can enjoy delicious Italian ice cream, aromatic coffee, tea, and lemonade. The prices? You pay what you can. If you’re short on cash, no worries—you’re welcome for free. If you can and want to pay more, that’s great too!
Weekly fun at the Butterfly Circus
- Monday: Eco Day
Trade your trash for tasty treats! Help clean the banks of the Vistula River and earn a delicious reward.
- Tuesday: Seniors' Day
Starting at 5 PM, seniors are invited to join dance balls. Główczyński heard the seniors' pleas for more dancing partners and decided to make it happen.
- Wednesday: Singles and Friends
A perfect day for team-building games, board games, karaoke, and making new friends.
- Thursday: Inclusive Meetings
A day for those who don’t attend church for various reasons. Whether divorced, in a non-sacramental relationship, or feeling ostracized, everyone is welcome to talk and connect in a respectful atmosphere.
- Friday: Budding Artists
Aspiring artists get their time to shine.
- Saturday: Alcohol-Free Events
Proving that great fun doesn’t need alcohol.
- Sunday: Family Day
Workshops and animations for kids and young people, all free of charge. A special day for families who might not often get the chance to go out together.
The journey to opening
The idea for Butterfly Circus had been on Główczyński's mind for a long time, but he initially didn’t take it seriously. “Humanly speaking, it had no right to succeed because we didn't have any funds,” he admitted. However, with faith and the power of prayer, support started pouring in from kind-hearted people, the priest told Polish Press Agency.
"Good people came forward to help us, many supported us financially. That's how something amazing was created out of nothing," he said.
Future uncertainty
When asked how the café will sustain itself, Główczyński was candid: "I have no idea. This place can only sustain itself thanks to good people. If there are those who want to help, it will succeed, and if not—we will simply go bankrupt."
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Source: PAP