Miyuki Aizawa

November in Poznań has a charm of its own.
It’s not just about chilly mornings, fog over the Warta River, or the leafy scenery in Jan Kasprowicz Park - it’s the smell that fills the air when the city celebrates Saint Martin’s Day and Poland’s Independence Day.
And nothing ties these two together better than the iconic Saint Martin’s Croissant.

🕊 Two Celebrations, Two Meanings

November 11th is a special day in Poland.
On one hand, we celebrate Independence Day, marking the moment Poland regained its freedom after 123 years of partitions. It’s a day of reflection, pride, and gratitude for those who fought for the country’s independence.
On the other hand - here in Poznań - it’s also Saint Martin’s Day, honoring the city’s patron known for kindness, humility… and for inspiring one of the sweetest traditions ever baked.

That day, Poznań bursts into life. Święty Marcin Street fills with parades, music, and color, and the scent of freshly baked croissants drifts through the air.

(Unfortunately, there is no parade this year, but there is a “Stationary Name Day Town” with attractions related to the event).

^ fot. Maciej Kaczyński ^

🥐 The Legend Behind the Croissant

The story goes that long ago, as Saint Martin’s Day was approaching, a Poznań baker had a dream.
In it, he saw Saint Martin riding a horse, and as the saint’s horse trotted by, one of its horseshoes fell to the ground.
Inspired by the vision, the baker created pastries shaped like horseshoes and shared them with the poor.
And so, the tradition of the Saint Martin’s Croissant was born - a symbol of kindness, generosity, and good fortune.

Today, they’re a protected regional product - only certified bakeries in Greater Poland can make them according to the official recipe: puff pastry, white poppy seed filling, nuts, raisins, candied orange peel, and that unforgettable aroma of tradition.

fot. Polonist

❤️ Poznań’s Sweetest Tradition

For Poznań locals, it’s more than just a pastry - it’s a part of who we are.
Everyone celebrates it their own way: some queue at dawn in front of bakeries, others stroll down Święty Marcin Street with coffee and croissant in hand.
And people like me? I prefer my little ritual - a warm blanket, a hot drink, and a fresh rogal from a family bakery.

You don’t have to be from here to feel it - one bite is enough to understand that Poznań truly smells different in November.