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Sylwester (New Year’s Eve) Blowout | Champagne, Fireworks & Late-Night Bars
Putting It All Together Before the Big Night If there’s one night you’ll remember—or maybe half-remember—this month, it’s Sylwester. Kraków goes off like a firework display, quite literally. The city’s got an energy that’s less about cozy tradition and more about full-throttle celebration. If you’ve been pacing yourself through December, now’s the time to let loose. The Mood on Sylwester Sylwester isn’t polite. It doesn’t knock quietly. It shows up, bangs on your door, and drags you outside. It’s the one night where you’ll see champagne on tap, bars open till dawn, and crowds that spill out of every venue. It’s not about sipping something subtle and having a quiet chat in the corner. It’s about meeting new people, shouting countdowns, and watching fireworks light up the sky over the Main Square. Earlier in the month, we talked about that good feeling and how the city’s got character. On Sylwester, the character cranks it up a few notches. If December in Kraków felt like a gradual build, this is the climax. Let’s just say subtlety is off the table. Champagne and More Traditionally, champagne or sparkling wine is the drink of choice when midnight hits. It’s that universal symbol of celebration, something to pop open when the clock strikes twelve. You’ll find people gathered in the Main Square, champagne bottles in hand, doing their best not to lose the cork in someone’s eye (no promises). But don’t think that’s all there is. Vodka shots fly off the bar, people crack open beers, and nalewki come out of hiding. It’s an all-hands-on-deck situation—if it’s drinkable, someone’s probably raising a glass of it. Finding Your Spot The Main Square becomes the obvious epicenter. Fireworks, music, and thousands of people crammed together, all looking up at the clock tower. But if you’re not into shoulder-to-shoulder madness, Kazimierz and the Old Town side streets offer a slightly less intense scene. Pubs and bars throw their own parties, some with a cover charge, others just letting the crowd roll in. If you’ve been around since the start of December, you might already have a favorite place to call home base. Feel like you might get lost in the chaos? That’s where the Krakow Party Animals Pub Crawl can help. They’ve got a plan—bars, clubs, and a bunch of new friends you’ll meet along the way. Instead of wandering aimlessly, you follow the group, clinking glasses, and making sure you’re in the right place at midnight. Think of it as a security net in a sea of revelers. After all, you don’t want to start the new year alone in some random alley, wondering where everyone else went. Timing the Fireworks Around midnight, fireworks take over the sky. Some are official displays; others are just guys lighting rockets in the street. It’s a wild mix that’s hard to predict. The safest bet is to find a semi-open space—maybe close to the Main Square but not so jammed in that you can’t breathe—and watch the light show. Just watch your step, because the sidewalks get slippery, and everyone’s carrying at least one bottle. After Midnight: The Real Party Starts Once the countdown’s over and the fireworks fade, that’s when some people call it a night. But you’re not here to tap out early, right? December was practice, and Sylwester is the main event. Keep the drinks flowing, follow the sounds of laughter and loud music, and see where the night takes you. Bars that have been open since early evening kick into second gear. Clubs open their doors, sometimes with special DJs or live bands. The energy shifts—less organized countdown hype, more raw partying. You’ll see strangers hugging, dancing, and toasting to a year they hope will treat them better than the last one. Tips for Surviving Sylwester Layer Up: It’s still December. Even if you’re fueled by champagne, the cold will get you if you stand around too long. Dress warm. Drink Some Water: I know, I know, nobody wants to hear the responsible voice tonight. But trust me, you’ll be grateful come morning. Keep Your Eyes Open: Fireworks, crowds, and glass bottles can be a crazy mix. Watch your step, look out for your friends, and try not to lose anyone. Embrace the Chaos: It’s not going to go perfectly. You might lose track of your plan, or end up in a random bar you’ve never seen before. Roll with it—that’s half the fun. Full Circle Remember how the month started with a relatively chill event like Mikołajki? You’ve come a long way. You’ve sampled mulled wine, craft beers, mead, nalewki, and vodka. You’ve met strangers, maybe become drinking buddies with a few, and learned that Kraków’s December is a puzzle made of many pieces, not just one postcard image. Sylwester ties it all together by throwing everything at you at once. It’s the city saying, “You think you’ve seen it all? Try me.” And you answer by raising your glass and shouting along with everyone else. What’s Next? When the sun comes up on January 1st, you’ll need a plan. Because let’s face it: after a night like Sylwester, you’re gonna be a little rough around the edges. That’s where the next blog comes in—how to face the morning after, tackle that hangover, and maybe think about a few New Year’s resolutions. After all, you’ve just made it through December in Kraków, and if that’s not worth a pat on the back (and maybe a glass of water), I don’t know what is. For now, enjoy Sylwester. Pop that champagne, watch the fireworks, and embrace the madness. December’s final act is here—don’t hold back. Cheers.
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From Mead to Nalewki | A Guide to Poland’s Infused Spirits
Picking Up Where We Left Off By now, you’ve had a taste of December in Kraków that’s anything but one-note. We’ve covered everything from Mikołajki (St. Nicholas Day) & Early December Delights to The December Drinking Scene in Kraków , checked out Christmas Markets & Mulled Wine | Finding That Good Feeling in Kraków, and dipped into Craft Beers & Kazimierz | Winter Warmers in the Old Jewish Quarter . You’ve got some context: beer, wine, festivals, markets, and the quirks of Polish holiday cheer. Now, it’s time to go deeper. December isn’t just about sipping what you already know. Poland’s got a history of crafted, infused spirits that go way back. While vodka is the headliner, there’s more under the surface: mead (miód pitny), those mysterious homemade nalewki (infused liquors), and other drinks that tie into a different side of the country’s character. Let’s take a look. Mead: A Taste of Old Poland When you think of mead, you might picture medieval banquets, knights, and huge wooden tables. You’re not totally off. Mead (miód pitny) is a honey-based drink that’s been around here for centuries. It’s sweet, sometimes too sweet for some people, but it warms you up in a way that feels old school, like you’re stepping into a piece of Poland’s past every time you raise a glass. You’ll find mead in certain bars and at the Christmas Market, where it’s often served hot. Cold December evenings are the perfect excuse to give it a whirl. It’s not something you’ll down in large quantities—this stuff is more for sipping, letting the flavors unfold. Maybe you’re chatting with a friend, discussing how the month’s going, or just standing outside wrapped in a scarf. Mead turns a cold moment into something more thoughtful. Nalewki: The Art of Infusion Now, let’s talk nalewki. These are traditional Polish infused spirits that can range from sweet and fruity to herbal and mysterious. Cherry (wiśniówka), quince (pigwówka), and walnut (orzechówka) are just a few examples. Think of nalewki like someone’s grandma’s secret recipe—often homemade, aged in jars, and passed down through generations. They’re not just drinks; they’re stories in a bottle. This time of year, nalewki hit the spot. They warm you up, feel a bit more personal than a generic vodka or beer, and carry a certain pride. When someone pours you a glass of their homemade nalewka, it’s like they’re inviting you into their family circle. December’s about connection, tradition, and a sense of belonging—nalewki tie right into that vibe. Finding These Hidden Gems You won’t always see mead or nalewki advertised with neon signs. They’re subtle pleasures—ask your bartender if they have any local specialties. Some bars in Kazimierz or quieter spots around Old Town might surprise you with their selection. Don’t be afraid to admit you’re new to this. Bartenders and locals are usually happy to guide you through the options. Compare notes, try a couple, and find the flavor that sticks. It’s a bit like treasure hunting, except your reward is a glass of something you probably can’t pronounce but will love anyway. How They Fit Into December December’s got all these moving parts: holidays, markets, traditions that go back generations. Mead and nalewki fit right into that puzzle. If you’ve been following along, you know we’ve experienced the festive chaos of Mikołajki, the warm glow of Christmas markets, and even ventured into craft beers in Kazimierz. Mead and nalewki bring in a different dimension. They’re less about the party atmosphere and more about slowing down, appreciating the depth of the season. Picture this: you’ve had your fill of mulled wine and beer, the city’s a bit quieter tonight, and you’re in a low-lit bar talking quietly with friends. That’s when a small glass of nalewka or mead makes sense. It’s reflective, unhurried drinking. It can turn a casual night into something more meaningful. Pairing with Food and Stories Don’t forget the snacks. A bit of dried sausage, a slice of cheese, or a piece of smoked fish can bring out the flavors in your nalewka. Mead pairs well with sweeter treats—gingerbread, maybe some dried fruit. The right combination might make you feel like you’re tasting part of Poland’s cultural memory. And while you’re at it, share stories. Talk about where you’re from, what brought you to Kraków this December, and what you’ve learned along the way. One of the best parts of these traditional drinks is how they open the door to conversation. They’re not shot-after-shot party starters. They’re more like a gentle invitation to slow down and listen. Linking Back to the Pub Crawl You might be wondering how something so old school and mellow fits with the Krakow Party Animals Pub Crawl. Well, even party animals need a break from the madness. Sure, the crawl is about hitting hot spots and meeting people ready to have a good time. But mixing in a bar that serves mead or nalewki can add a twist to the night. It shows a different side of Kraków’s drinking culture, something beyond the standard club-and-shots routine. If you’ve been reading about how we navigate this city all month, you know variety is key. One night you’re laughing over mulled wine in the Christmas Market, the next you’re sampling craft beers in Kazimierz. Now imagine sharing a nalewka or mead with a couple of strangers who have never tried it before. That’s how friendships start, and how travel memories get made. The Bigger Picture December in Kraków isn’t about following a strict itinerary. It’s about stumbling onto experiences—some loud and rowdy, others quiet and rich. Mead and nalewki fit into that second category. They’re for the nights when you want to go a little deeper, taste something handcrafted, and feel connected to the generations who’ve raised glasses before you. So, as you map out your December drinking adventures, put these infused spirits on your list. It’s not all about the hottest club or the cheapest beer. Sometimes it’s about savoring a drink that carries a bit of history, a bit of tradition, and a flavor you won’t soon forget. Cheers to that.
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Craft Beers & Kazimierz | Winter Warmers in the Old Jewish Quarter
Checking In | Where Are We Now? We’re well into this December drinking journey, and if you’ve been keeping up, you already know we’re bouncing all over the place. We started with [Mikołajki (St. Nicholas Day) & Early December Delights | Let’s Kick This Off], introduced this whole mess in [The December Drinking Scene in Kraków | The Intro You Didn’t Get Before], and dug into festive traditions like the Christmas Market and mulled wine in [Christmas Markets & Mulled Wine | Finding That Good Feeling in Kraków]. At this point, you’ve got a solid handle on holiday drinking in Kraków. Now, it’s time to venture off the beaten path and into one of my favorite places to enjoy a cold one: Kazimierz, the city’s old Jewish quarter. Why Kazimierz for Craft Beers? Kazimierz isn’t just another neighborhood; it’s got character that runs deep. Originally the Jewish district of Kraków, it’s packed with history, cobblestone streets, old synagogues, and hidden courtyards that feel like they’ve been around forever. This place once carried a heavy past, and it still honors that history, but over the years it’s also grown into a creative, lively hub. Bars, cafes, galleries, and restaurants have moved in, and with them came a wave of craft beer enthusiasts. Winter in Kazimierz hits different. It’s less crowded than the Main Square and feels more tucked away. When the cold wind picks up, ducking into a cozy craft beer bar feels like a personal victory. Instead of massive holiday crowds, you’ll find smaller groups huddled around tables, trying interesting brews, talking quietly, and taking it all in. Beer Culture in Kraków Poland’s known for vodka, sure we covered that in the intro and we’ll dig deeper soon but beer’s been booming here too. A few years ago, craft breweries started popping up all over the place. Suddenly, your options went from generic lagers to stouts, porters, IPAs, and ales brewed with local spices or honey. December is perfect for the darker, richer styles that show up on tap in Kazimierz. We’re talking about beers that warm you from the inside out, the kind of pints that make you forget the wind nipping at your face outside. Where to Start Kazimierz isn’t huge, but you’ll find craft beer bars tucked along narrow streets and around quiet corners. Look for spots that keep the lights low and the conversation flowing. Some will have extensive menus on chalkboards, listing beers by brewery and style. Don’t be shy, ask the bartender what pairs best with a cold December night. They’ve heard it all before, and they’ll steer you right. Try something dark and malty, maybe a Baltic porter, a style that’s popular in this part of the world or a winter ale with subtle hints of spice. Even if you’re not a beer connoisseur, tasting different brews can be half the fun. Worst case, you find something that’s not your style, but at least you gave it a shot. Beer with a Side of History Kazimierz has roots going back centuries, and you can feel it in the walls. While you sip your pint, consider the layers of history around you. This was once a separate city from Kraków, a place with its own rhythm. The Holocaust left deep scars here, and walking these streets you sense the weight of the past. Many of the old storefronts, synagogues, and squares tell stories of resilience and rebirth. Drinking here isn’t just about getting a buzz, though that’s certainly part of it, it’s about engaging with a neighborhood that’s evolved from tragedy into a creative, welcoming space. This contrast makes your beer taste a bit richer somehow. You’re part of a continuing story, mixing old and new, respect and reinvention. Food to Match Your Pint Don’t forget that beer and food are friends, especially when it’s freezing outside. Street food vendors, small bistros, and even late-night kebab shops populate Kazimierz. Check out a zapiekanka stand (a Polish take on a long baguette pizza) in Plac Nowy, the neighborhood’s little square, where you can pile on mushrooms, cheese, and other toppings. It’s cheap, filling, and pairs perfectly with a pint. After a couple of beers, a gooey zapiekanka hits the spot like nothing else. Linking Back and Looking Forward Now, I get it: craft beer may not scream “December holiday tradition” the way mulled wine or Mikołajki do. But that’s the beauty of Kraków, this city doesn’t serve you one narrow version of the season. You can hop from sipping mulled wine at the Christmas Market ([Christmas Markets & Mulled Wine | Finding That Good Feeling in Kraków]) straight into the quieter streets of Kazimierz, sampling beers that people in town have been brewing up with real care and attention. And remember, if you’re feeling social or just want to find the right bars without guessing, the Krakow Party Animals Pub Crawl can also swing through Kazimierz from time to time, depending on the night. It’s a good way to mix meeting new people with exploring fresh watering holes. Once you’ve downed a few craft beers, you might be more open to making friends, telling stories, or swapping recommendations with fellow travelers. The Kazimierz State of Mind What makes Kazimierz special is that it doesn’t try too hard. It’s got its own pace, slower than the city center, more personal. In December, when everyone’s wrapped in scarves and hats, the bars here feel like sanctuaries of warmth and conversation. You’re not just passing through; you’re taking part in something ongoing—an evolving culture that respects its past but isn’t stuck there. So, if you’re ready for something different this December, if you’ve already done the Mikołajki thing, checked the Christmas Market scene, and wrapped your head around Polish drinking traditions, come to Kazimierz. Grab a craft beer, soak in the quiet history of the quarter, and let the winter blues fade away one sip at a time. After this, we’ll be moving on to other December traditions, like From Mead to Nalewki and the special drinks that pop up as the month continues. But for now, enjoy Kazimierz’s craft beer scene. It’s one more piece in the puzzle of what makes Kraków so damn interesting in December. Cheers.
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Christmas Markets & Mulled Wine | Finding That Good Feeling in Kraków
Embracing the Markets (Finally) Alright, so this is the third blog of our December drinking series, and I know the order’s been a bit off. If you missed the early action, check out [Mikołajki (St. Nicholas Day) & Early December Delights | Let’s Kick This Off]. That’s where I basically said “forget the intro” and jumped right into one of this month’s first excuses to raise a glass. And if you’re curious why we started the series that way, swing by [The December Drinking Scene in Kraków | The Intro You Didn’t Get Before] to see how I finally got around to explaining myself. Now that you’ve got a sense of how December rolls around here, it’s time to hit the heart of Kraków’s holiday season: the Christmas Markets. While I might’ve kicked things off with a hangover and half a plan, the Markets have been here all along, waiting to show you what holiday drinking in this city is really about. The Heart of Kraków’s Holiday Atmosphere The Main Square’s Christmas Market isn’t some hidden gem—it’s right there in the Rynek Główny, ready to smack you with holiday cheer the second you step inside. Wooden huts, Christmas lights, grilled cheeses (oscypek, if you want to sound like you know your stuff), and enough gingerbread smells to make you hungry even after a full meal. Tourists, locals, expats—they’re all in the same boat, wandering from stall to stall, sipping, snacking, and getting a feel for December’s character. Mulled Wine: Your Go-To Warm Up If there’s one drink that screams “Drink me now, it’s cold as hell!” it’s mulled wine (grzaniec). Hot, spiced, and perfect for warming your hands while your feet slowly freeze to the cobblestone. I don’t care if you’re a beer guy the rest of the year—this stuff hits right after a long day of gift shopping or dodging crowds. One cup, two cups... suddenly that cold night doesn’t feel so bad. And if you’re not into mulled wine, no big deal. Try honey mead (miód pitny) or hot beer—yeah, hot beer, don’t knock it ‘til you’ve tried it. Every stall has a twist, something unique, something that might just become your new December go-to. Eating While You’re Drinking (Because You’re Not Stupid) Now, remember what I said about not drinking on an empty stomach back in [Mikołajki (St. Nicholas Day) & Early December Delights | Let’s Kick This Off]? It still applies. Pierogi, oscypek with cranberry jam, sausages—these aren’t just snacks; they’re what keeps you from keeling over after a few hot beverages. Plus, it’s the stuff that makes the Market more than just a place to grab a drink. It’s a whole experience, and eating is part of the deal. The People Make It Interesting Let’s not forget that it’s the people who bring this all together. The market is a magnet for all sorts—some folks calm and cozy, others a little more rowdy. After a couple of mulled wines, it’s easier to strike up a conversation with a stranger. Before you know it, you’re comparing notes on which stall sells the best gingerbread or which bar to hit afterward. We touched on this sense of community in [The December Drinking Scene in Kraków | The Intro You Didn’t Get Before], and it still stands. December in Kraków is as much about who you meet as what you drink. Next Stop: The Krakow Party Animals Pub Crawl Look, the Market’s great, but it’s not a place you’ll stay all night. Eventually, you’ll want music, warmth, maybe a few stronger drinks at better prices. That’s when the Krakow Animals pub crawl comes into play. After the Market warms your heart (and liver) with mulled wine, the Pub Crawl shows you what’s next—bars, clubs, and a crowd ready to keep the night rolling. Think of it like a progression: Start with a holiday scene at the Market (mulled wine, snacks, and a good feeling). Move on to the Pub Crawl when you’re ready to test your night-owl skills. Wake up with stories you won’t get anywhere else. Embrace the Flaws I’m not going to sell you some perfect postcard moment. The Market gets crowded, the weather can suck, and sometimes the mulled wine is better at one stall than another. It’s all part of the experience. If you’ve read the previous posts, you know by now December here is about rolling with what comes your way. Embrace it: the imperfections, the last-minute changes, the idea that your “plan” might just blow up once you have that first drink in hand. Wrapping It Up So there it is: The Christmas Markets, a core part of Kraków’s December drinking scene is part of how December works around here.
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The December Drinking Scene in Kraków | The Intro You Didn’t Get Before
Better Late Than Never, Right? So, here we are with the introduction that should’ve kicked off this December blog series. Instead, I jumped straight into Mikołajki last time. Why? Because it was December 6th, I was already halfway into a round of shots, and let’s just say writing wasn’t top of my priority list at that exact moment. By the time I remembered I owed you a proper intro, I’d already dropped a whole blog about Mikołajki. Not exactly a smooth start, but hey, this is Kraków in December—we do things a bit backwards sometimes. Life’s too short to follow all the rules. Now that we’ve had our fun with St. Nicholas Day, let’s zoom out a bit. December in Kraków isn’t just about one holiday. It’s a month full of traditions, late nights, and new friends crammed shoulder-to-shoulder in bars tucked down old cobblestone streets. It’s about a certain character that the city takes on when the weather gets cold and everyone decides the best way to deal with it is to raise a glass. And trust me, there’s a good feeling that comes along with it. What This Series Is All About This blog series is your inside look at how Kraków drinks its way through December. Forget the polish tourism pamphlets—this is about real nights out, from the hectic club-hopping to the mellow afternoons sipping mulled wine at the Christmas Market. I’m here to show you what’s worth trying, what’s worth skipping, and how to find that sweet spot between partying like a nutcase and actually remembering the next morning. We’re gonna cover it all: Mikołajki: Already done. You saw how it goes—small gifts, a few drinks, a warm-up for the rest of the month. Wigilia (Christmas Eve): Not a big bar night, but we’ll talk about how to keep the spirit alive afterward. Polish Traditions & Drinks: Mulled wine, hot mead, infused vodkas, and winter ales. We’ll dig into these. The Christmas Market: How to navigate the stalls, what to drink, and how not to freeze your ass off while doing it. New Year’s Eve (Sylwester): The big finale. The fireworks, the champagne, the absolute madness of it all. You’ll get the rundown on each of these, along with a few personal stories from the field. I’m not pretending to be some all-knowing expert, but I’ve been guiding pub crawls for a while and I’ve seen a thing or two. I’ll share what I know: where to start your night, what to try if you’re a total newbie, and how to avoid coming off like a complete tourist (although sometimes that’s half the fun). December’s Personality: Cold Weather, Warm Bars December in Kraków might not be warm, but it’s got something better—it’s got character. The city’s old stone buildings glow under Christmas lights, the bars stay open late, and locals mix with expats and travelers to create an atmosphere that’s tough to beat. The cold outside makes that first sip of a hot drink inside feel downright perfect. It’s not about being fancy, it’s about embracing what’s in front of you: a crowded bar, a steaming mug of grzaniec (mulled wine), and the kind of conversation you only have when everyone’s escaping the same chill. You’ll notice this good feeling is most obvious at night, when a few drinks have softened the edges of the day. Strangers talk to strangers a little easier. You try a new drink just because your neighbor at the bar recommended it. A random Christmas carol might float in from the street, and suddenly everyone’s humming along. December sets the stage; you just have to show up and play your part. Why I’m Doing This (Other Than the Obvious Fun) You might wonder: why write these blogs at all? Well, besides the fact that I said I would (and I’m already late), I actually like giving newcomers a heads-up. Kraków has this underground energy that tourists don’t always get to see. Sure, the city’s known for cheap drinks and a wild nightlife, but there’s more to it than just slamming shots. There are traditions woven into the way people drink, the drinks they choose, and the reason they gather. It’s a chance to taste a bit of the local culture, not just the local booze. The Krakow Party Animals Pub Crawl—Your Shortcut If you’re short on time or just not in the mood to figure it all out yourself, that’s where the Krakow Party Animals Pub Crawl comes in. I’m part of that crew, and we’ve got this down to a system. One ticket, a bunch of bars, no guesswork. You’ll meet a mix of people who’ve come to do the same thing as you—drink, talk, maybe sing a carol off-key after a few too many. By the end of the night, you’ll have a better feel for what makes December in Kraków worth sticking around for. Apologies for the Messy Schedule Look, I know this intro is late. But think about it—what’s a drinking guide to December if I don’t get caught up in the moment myself? If I’d stayed home writing a perfect introduction on December 1st, I might’ve missed out on the very stuff I’m here to talk about. So, sorry-not-sorry for the delay. The whole point is that December here can catch you off guard, lead you down a side street, and have you leaning over a dimly lit bar discussing life with someone you just met. What’s Next From here on out, I’ll try to keep things in order… maybe. We’ll dive deeper into the traditions, the drinks, and the spots that make Kraków tick during December. I’ll tell you where to get the best mulled wine, how to handle Christmas Eve when most people are home with family, and what to expect as the month barrels towards New Year’s Eve. If you’re new to the city, buckle up. If you’re a local, you might see your own habits and hangouts reflected back at you. December in Kraków isn’t perfect. It’s rough around the edges, a bit chaotic, and sometimes the drinks hit harder than you expect. But that’s kind of the point. There’s a realness here, a certain character you can’t fake. And whether you’re drinking with old friends or total strangers, there’s a good feeling that you’re part of something more than just another night out. So, consider this the official start—even though it’s technically blog number two. Grab a drink, pull up a chair, and let’s navigate December together. It might not be flawless, but it sure won’t be boring. Cheers.
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Mikołajki & Early December in Kraków | A Down-to-Earth Drinking Guide
No Fancy Introductions—Just Getting Started Alright, so I’m supposed to start this whole December blog series with a neat little introduction, right? Yeah, that’s not happening. It’s December 6th—Mikołajki—and I’m writing this with a slightly fuzzy head becuase priorities happen, my friend. I know I promised a slick intro, but when you’re knee-deep in shots and everyone’s yelling “Na zdrowie!” it’s hard to remember your to-do list. So, we’re kicking off with Mikołajki. I’ll get to the intro later (or never—nah, I’ll get there, don’t worry). What the Hell is Mikołajki Anyway? For those who have no idea, Mikołajki (St. Nicholas Day) falls on December 6th. Kids wake up to small gifts—usually sweets—and adults tend to treat themselves to a few drinks. It’s not New Year’s Eve crazy, but it’s a decent enough excuse to raise a glass. And really, who’s gonna complain about an extra reason to indulge? The Early December Buzz By the time Mikołajki rolls around, Kraków starts humming with a certain character. There’s a good feeling out there in the cold streets—people buying gifts, grabbing gingerbread, and sipping mulled wine at the Christmas Market. Even if you’re not scoring any fancy presents today, you still feel that something’s in the air. It’s like the city’s giving you a wink and a nod, telling you the holiday madness is only just warming up. What to Drink Today Let’s get into the fun part. On Mikołajki, you’ll see locals dipping into bars, ordering hot mulled wine (grzaniec) or honey mead. If you’re more of a vodka guy, cherry vodka or a quick shot of something stronger works. It all goes down easy when your face is half-frozen. Personally, I like to keep it simple—beer with a shot on the side. This way, I stay warm, and I stay interested. Getting Into the Crawl While you’re out there soaking it in, don’t forget the Krakow Party Animals Pub Crawl is always an option. Sure, it might be early in the month, but December’s a long stretch of celebrations. Why not kick it off right? Come join us, and we’ll bounce you through a couple of spots that won’t disappoint. By the end of the night, you’ll know the bars worth returning to when the real holiday chaos comes knocking. A Softer Start to the Holiday Madness Think of Mikołajki as a practice run. The bars aren’t nuts yet, and you can actually claim a decent seat. This is your chance to test out the local drinks and meet new people before the crowds triple in size. Trust me, once you know your way around these spots, you’ll be set when mid-December hits and everyone’s shifting into full party mode. About That Missing Introduction If you’re wondering where the formal introduction to this blog series is—well, I was busy getting drunk, my friend. That’s the whole point of December in Kraków: you live it first, write about it second. Consider this a teaser. I’ll give you that official intro later, once my head clears. For now, just roll with it, grab a drink, and enjoy the moment. Embrace the Warm-Up So here’s the deal: Mikołajki might not be the wildest holiday on the Polish calendar, but it sets the tone. It’s a signal that the real party’s still ahead. You’ve got a whole month of celebrations, traditions, and drinking sessions waiting for you. So raise that beer, knock back that shot, and if you want some solid company, join us on the pub crawl. This is just the warm-up to December’s main event, and trust me, you won’t want to miss a second of it. Cheers!
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