SU Kraków 2026: Monsters, Myths, and Magic

Ancient rituals, legendary monster slayers, and the smoky air of a campfire: AEGEE-Kraków is inviting you on a mystical quest with the Summer University “Slavic Sparks: Ignite Your Inner Witcher!” from 18 to 30 July 2026. 24 adventurers will journey through the medieval streets of Kraków and the scenic hills of Dobczyce in a role-playing game to uncover the secrets of old gods.

GT: Your theme is “Ignite Your Inner Witcher.” What is the main idea behind it, and why mythology & fantasy?
AEGEE-Kraków: We chose a theme that instantly sparks recognition among many people and one that lets us pull participants straight into the world of Slavic mythology and fantasy. We’re inspired by ancient Slavic culture and, of course, by the legendary monster slayer with two swords on his back. We want to show Europe something unique and deeply local. We’ll show Poland from a different angle – as a place where the spirit of Slavic traditions is still alive. Every day they’ll dive deeper into this culture until it becomes part of them.

What is included in the fee of 300 Euros, and what does the optional fee of 50 Euros unlock?
Accommodation in two cities, Kraków and Dobczyce, plus two solid meals a day – we take this VERY seriously, because you’ll need strength for a full day of magic. Also included: local transport in Kraków and between cities. Kayaks. And many more SU activities that we can’t reveal yet… but let’s just say we’re planning action 24/7. The optional fee unlocks a full‑day trip to Energylandia – one of the biggest amusement parks in Europe!

How do you pack so much value into such a small fee?
Our beloved logistics queen and the entire FR team probably haven’t slept since January! Our core team has ten people, and every single one of us is pouring our whole heart into creating the best event of our lives. A well‑synchronized core team can move mountains together. And trust us – there will be no shortage of attractions.

Which cities and landmarks will you visit?
We’ll spend most of our time in Kraków and Dobczyce, but we’re also planning trips just outside the city: Kryspinów beach and the castle with its landscape park in Tyniec. What might tourists miss? Definitely the Slavic celebration we’re taking our participants to – that’s not something you stumble upon during a regular holiday.

There will be workshops too. What are they about?
AEGEE‑Kraków takes personal development seriously, so we’re preparing workshops at a fully professional level. Participants can expect a deep‑dive workshop on Slavic mythology filled with ancient myths and legends, an outdoor yoga session, a traditional folk-dance workshop, an artistic workshop, two cooking workshops, and a first‑aid workshop – all led by professionals in their fields. And of course, we’ll also include a workshop dedicated to youth development.

SUs offer local insights that normal holidays can’t. What special local tradition will participants experience?
Honestly… the entire SU is a local tradition you won’t get on a normal holiday. But “local” in a different sense, by stepping into the roles of characters from myths and legends!

What will be the single most epic activity?
It’s subjective, but the most magical moments will definitely come from the role‑play activities – and there will be a lot of them! If we have to pick one… probably Energylandia. But the kayaks will also be amazing!

It’s the third SU day. Where am I, what am I eating, seeing, hearing, smelling?
Excellent choice. On day three, you’ll join a magical workshop session on Slavic mythology, take part in a yoga workshop, and witness a Slavic celebration. You’ll eat traditional Polish zapiekanki and food straight from the campfire. You’ll hear singing during the rituals and smell the smoky air around the fire.

You start as 24+ strangers. How will you turn them into a family in just a few days?
AEGEE‑Kraków has been growing at an incredible pace, and the last year proved that we truly function like a family. We’ll take care of participant integration the same way we take care of our members in Kraków.

AEGEE is famous for its Spirit. How would you describe it to a new member?
“You just have to see it.” Honestly, these are the only words that truly capture it.

Is there a specific song or dance that will become the vibe of the trip?
The dance called Belgijka is our daily ritual. Pssst… you’ll learn it during the SU!

Who is your ideal participant?
Everyone is welcome! The ideal participant is someone open to new cultures – and if they know the story of the man with two swords on his back, that’s a must-have bonus. But if not, they won’t miss anything. It’s important that participants feel comfortable with a setting where pagan‑inspired vibes play a major role.

AEGEE‑Kraków is one of the most active locals. What makes you famous in the network?
Our amazing members! We create genuinely great events, we constantly strive for growth, and we try to approach every person in AEGEE‑Kraków individually.

If you could send a 10‑second voice note to someone hesitating to apply, what would you say?
“Brave traveller, would you like to become the hero of your own saga? If yes, then Summer University Slavic Sparks: Ignite Your Inner Witcher is the place where you’ll live the adventure of a lifetime. See you in Kraków!”

Check out the course description at the official SU application page. The application period ends on 1 May 2026.