Poland: World Willow Festival 2026
The World Willow and Wickerwork Festival returns to Nowy Tomyśl
From September 3rd to 6th, 2026, the Polish city of Nowy Tomyśl will host the 6th edition of the World Willow and Wickerwork Festival. This new edition will focus on a return to roots.
This choice is no accident. Nowy Tomyśl is one of the emblematic places of Polish basketry. Willow, worked for a long time in the region, is part of the local identity. The festival thus returns to the city where it was born, to celebrate a know-how that is both ancient, vibrant, and open to the future.
A major event centered around willow and weaving
The festival will bring together basket makers, artists, craftspeople, and visitors from different countries. The announced program includes an international basketry competition, exhibitions, workshops, demonstrations by master basket makers, a scientific conference, an international fair, and concerts.
One of the highlights will be the 7th International Basketry Competition, featuring works created on-site and others submitted in advance. The creations will be judged in several categories, ranging from traditional baskets to decorative, utilitarian, or even experimental forms.
The program also announces the first "Paralympiad" of basketry, designed to highlight the work of people with disabilities and give them a visible place in this craft world.
Between heritage, transmission, and contemporary creation
Beyond the festive event, this edition aims to showcase basketry as a craft in motion. The exhibitions will focus on the theme "Roots and Wings," heritage and the future. An outdoor exhibition will also trace the history of willow and basketry in the Nowy Tomyśl region.
Workshops will be offered to different audiences: some for experienced basket makers and others open to all. The festival thus aims to transmit techniques, but also to introduce the material, the rhythm of weaving, and the richness of possible forms.
A conference will finally address the current and future uses of willow and osier, including a broader reflection on the environment and climate change.
Practical information:
Location: Nowy Tomyśl, Poland
Dates: September 3 to 6, 2026
Announced program: international competition, exhibitions, workshops, demonstrations, fair, scientific conference, and concerts.
Useful links:
Nowy Tomyśl Willow Museum
Polish Association of Basket Makers and Willow Craftsmen