Participants prepared their horses ahead of the Parada Gazdowska near Bartolski Wierch during the annual winter festival in Ząb, Poland, held in the heart of the Podhale region. The event is a long-standing cultural celebration that honors the traditions, customs, and rural lifestyle of highlander communities living at the foothills of the Tatra Mountains.
Before the parades and races began, horse owners and riders carefully adjusted harnesses, checked sleigh equipment, and ensured their animals were comfortable and protected from the cold. The preparation process highlighted the close bond between participants and their horses, which play a central role in the festivities. Many attendees wore traditional highlander attire, including embroidered vests, woolen coats, and distinctive hats, adding color and authenticity to the snowy landscape.
The Parada Gazdowska is best known for its traditional sleigh parades and the Kumoterki races, a popular competition in which pairs of horses pull wooden sleighs at speed along snow-covered tracks. Drawing spectators from across the region, the festival creates a lively atmosphere filled with folk music, performances, and community gatherings. Beyond its competitive spirit, the event serves as an important platform for preserving Podhale highlander heritage and passing cultural traditions on to future generations.
