Every 11 November, Poland turns its gaze back across the centuries to a pivotal moment in its history – its return to the map of Europe as a sovereign state in 1918. With streets awash in red and white, flags fluttering from tram cars and historic façades, the country honours its arduous journey from partition, oppression and occupation to freedom – through vast public running events.

In Warsaw, the heart of the celebrations beats at Piłsudski Square, where the President and senior officials gather by the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Military formations pass, wreaths are laid, and the national anthem rings out in crisp, autumn air. But these observances are not mere spectacle: they are deep with significance. Poland’s story of 123 years without sovereignty – as part of Russia, just like Finland – is not forgotten. t underpins the solemn mood alongside the delight of marking independence. Beyond the capital, ordinary citizens join parades, runs and gatherings.

How to Celebrate Independence 

  • Flag displays: The Polish white-and-red national flag is prominently displayed on buildings, homes, public institutions and often on private vehicles.
  • Official ceremonies: In the capital Warsaw, the President, Prime Minister and other senior officials attend ceremonies at Piłsudski Square and near the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. These include guard changes, wreath-laying, national anthem performances and parades.
  • Parades and marches: A large military parade in Warsaw forms part of the national celebrations. Similarly, there are local parades and public processions in other cities.
  • Fun runs and “Independence Runs”: In many cities, there is a special running event, often thousands taking part, where participants may form patterns such as the national flag.
  • Speeches and concert events: Political speeches, public addresses and concerts or cultural events accompany the day.
  • Family gatherings and reflection: It is also a day off for many, and families may gather. The tone is both celebratory and reflective, respecting the historical struggle for independence.

Independence Run Since 1989

The Bieg Niepodległości, or Independence Run, is one of Poland’s most popular patriotic sporting events. It has been held annually on 11 November, Poland’s National Independence Day, since 1989 — which makes 2025 its 36th edition.

The first run was organised in Warsaw in 1989, just months after the fall of communist rule — the same year Poland reinstated open celebrations of Independence Day after decades of censorship. Before that, under communist rule (1945–1989), the day was not officially celebrated, as the then government promoted 22 July as the “National Day of the Rebirth of Poland.”

So, the Independence Run was born as a symbol of freedom, marking the country’s return to self-determination not only politically but also culturally and socially. It combined physical fitness, community participation, and patriotism — an open, positive expression of national pride after years of repression.

Thousands of runners – in Warsaw, often more than 15,000 – start the race wearing white and red shirts, so that when viewed from above, they form a moving Polish flag.
The route is typically 10 kilometres, going through central Warsaw (often along Aleje Niepodległości — “Independence Avenue,” a symbolic street name).
At the start, runners stop for a moment of silence and sing the national anthem, Mazurek Dąbrowskiego.

Many also wear patriotic symbols such as the white-and-red rosette or carry small flags.
The run has spread to many other Polish cities — Kraków, Gdańsk, Poznań, Wrocław, Sopot, Katowice, Białystok, Lublin, and even Polish communities abroad. It’s now a nationwide phenomenon.

Poland’s Fathers: Piłsudski and Mościcki

The Lords of the Wall from the Emigration Museum in Gdynia: Józef Piłsudski (1867–1935) and Ignacy Mościcki (1867–1946).

Józef Piłsudski (1867–1935)

Józef Klemens Piłsudski was a Polish statesman who served as Chief of State (1918–1922) and became the first Marshal of Poland in 1920. After the First World War, he emerged as the dominant figure in Polish politics, shaping the reborn nation’s military and foreign policy. Regarded as the founding father of the Second Polish Republic, Piłsudski held de facto leadership as Minister of Military Affairs until his death in 1935. His legacy combines visionary patriotism with authoritarian rule, marking him as one of Poland’s most complex national heroes.

Ignacy Mościcki (1867–1946)

Ignacy Mościcki was a Polish chemist and politician who served as President of Poland from 1926 to 1939. Early in life he joined the Polish Socialist Party and took part in anti-Russian activities, which forced him into exile in London, where he met Józef Piłsudski. Following Piłsudski’s coup d’état in 1926, Mościcki was elected president and remained loyal to his mentor. After Piłsudski’s death, his policies became more liberal, but his presidency ended with Poland’s occupation at the outbreak of the Second World War.