Culture, Tradition, and Integration on the Costa Blanca 

The “Polish Costa – Events for the Polish Community on Spain’s Southern Coast” project is a unique initiative aimed at the Polish community in the Torrevieja region, one of the largest concentrations of Poles on the Costa Blanca. Key elements of the project include the “Polish on the Costa Blanca” Photography Contest and Independence Day celebrations, which will take the form of a beach picnic. These events aim to connect tradition with modernity, integrate the local Polish community, and promote Polish culture among both Poles and the local Spanish population. 

“Polish on the Costa Blanca” Photography Contest 

The contest aims to capture the lives of Poles on the Costa Blanca and present it through photography. The themes include landscapes, everyday life, and the culture of this region as seen from the perspective of Polish residents. The event will culminate in an exhibition of the winning entries at a local museum, providing an opportunity for both Poles and people of other nationalities to discover the unique way in which the Polish community perceives Costa Blanca. This exhibition will not only be a meeting place but also a space for intercultural dialogue. 

Independence Chillout on the Beach 

The celebration of Independence Day is the second pillar of the “Polish Costa” project. In November, the Polish community living in Spain will have the opportunity to celebrate this important day together in an informal beach picnic setting. Organizers will provide traditional Polish snacks, a barbecue, music, and interactive educational games that will introduce participants to Polish history and traditions. The picnic will be open to everyone—Poles, Spaniards, and other nationalities—encouraging the building of relationships and intercultural understanding. 

Why Is This Important? 

The “Polish Costa” project is significant for Poles living in Spain because it helps them maintain their national identity, preserve traditions, and build connections with other compatriots. For many Poles living abroad, participating in such events is an opportunity to remember where they come from, while for younger generations, it’s a chance to learn about Polish culture and history, which can sometimes be forgotten in everyday life abroad. 

Building the Image of Poles in Spain 

In a region where Poles are often mistaken for people from other Slavic countries, organizing such events becomes an opportunity to assert Polish identity and cultural distinctiveness. It’s not only an occasion for celebration but also an opportunity to educate the local community about Poland and its traditions. The project helps build a positive image of Poles, showing them as an integrated, active community that contributes to the local cultural life. 

Support for Polish Community Organizations 

The “Polish Costa” project also supports the development of local Polish community organizations that are just beginning their activities. Thanks to collaboration with the HumanDoc Foundation, they gain valuable experience in organizing cultural events and international cooperation. Strengthening these structures will help the Polish community better organize and engage in local activities, which in the future will contribute to further integration of Poles in Spain and strengthen their position in society. 

The mentioned events have a long-term impact on building a strong, integrated Polish community that can jointly celebrate its culture and pass it on to future generations. In this way, Poles on the Costa Blanca can not only nurture their heritage but also share it with the residents of Spain and tourists from around the world. 

PROJECT FUNDED BY THE MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS OF THE REPUBLIC OF POLAND IN THE “POLONIA AND POLES ABROAD 2024 – EVENTS AND INITIATIVES” COMPETITION