One of Kraków's most unique and beloved traditions, the annual Wiener Dog Parade has carved out a special niche for itself in Kraków's array of special events.  Dachshunds, also known as wiener dogs, sausage dogs, or jamniki in Polish, became a favoured dog race among Poles during the communist era, when small apartments - sometimes with several generations living under one roof - made it impractical to keep larger dog breeds, and the scarcity of meat presumably made a dog that resembles kiełbasa more prestigious (we kid). Adored for their absurd proportions, keen intelligence and independence, dachshunds became associated with Poland and Kraków in particular, where lovers of the breed organised the first 'March of the Dachsunds' in 1973.

Banned by communist authorities, who were suspicious of any large gathering of people, but must have been more so of one under so dubious a pretense, the event was revived in 1994. Today it draws dachsund owners and lovers from all over the world to Kraków's Old Town each September, where the dogs strut their stuff from the Barbican, down Floriańska Street to the Market Square, accompanied by marching bands and amidst cheers and squeels from the adoring crowd. Most participants dress their dogs in costume and prizes are awarded for the best dressed. Other free dog related services, advice and information are available from specialists and professionals gathered around the Town Hall Tower. The parade typically sets off from the Barbican each year at the sound of the noon (12:00) St. Mary's bugle call. Fascinating, curious, kitsch and undeniably cute, don't miss this ridiculous event if you're in town.