Reuse and repair of dragon’s figures used during the Great Dragons Parade in Kraków

By project MINEV

Published on 09 January 2025

Poland

Małopolskie

Kraków

About this good practice

The Great Dragons Parade, organized annually by the Groteska Theatre since 2000, is a hallmark cultural event in Kraków. Combining creativity and sustainability, the event showcases massive dragon figures during a spectacular interdisciplinary show on the Vistula River. Over the years, the parade has adopted practices to reduce waste and cut costs, with a particular focus on reusing and repairing dragon figures.

Initially, dragons were crafted from rubber or rented materials, which proved expensive and unsustainable. From the sixth parade onward, a lightweight and durable polyamide-polyester material was adopted. This material allowed the creation of visually stunning, reusable, and repairable dragons. Over time, approximately 30 dragons were made and rotated between events, maintaining audience interest while minimizing new production.

The repairability of the dragons is a key feature. The theatre's craftsmen can easily sew or glue small damages, rebuild dragons by adding or modifying elements, and even create new dragons by combining materials from old ones. These practices drastically reduced costs and reliance on large rental spaces.

Additional good practices include the use of ecological, energy-saving lighting, water-based paints, and low-noise pyrotechnics. This comprehensive approach has enhanced sustainability while maintaining the event's popularity, attracting over 100,000 spectators annually and boosting Kraków’s cultural tourism.

Resources needed

Key resources include a skilled team of craftsmen for repairs and modifications, polyamide-polyester fabric for dragon construction (costing approx. PLN 25,000 per dragon without labor), basic tools for sewing and gluing, storage space for dragon figures, and access to a workshop for maintenance.

Evidence of success

Reusing and repairing dragon figures has reduced production costs and waste while maintaining event quality. Approximately 20 dragons were created from reused materials, saving resources. Spectator numbers have grown significantly, with over 100,000 attendees annually. Ecological practices, like low-noise pyrotechnics, enhance sustainability and public satisfaction, making the parade a recognized European cultural highlight.

Potential for learning or transfer

This practice demonstrates how cultural events can integrate sustainability and cost-efficiency, making it a model for regions aiming to reduce waste in large events. Key success factors include skilled craftsmen, access to reusable materials, and community engagement. It is particularly relevant for regions hosting recurring events, as it balances environmental responsibility with cultural value.

Challenges to transfer may include the need for specialized skills (e.g., repairing polyamide-polyester structures) and the availability of suitable workshops and storage facilities.

While the practice has not yet been officially transferred, it offers scalable solutions for other regions. For instance, cities aiming to enhance the sustainability of parades, festivals, or public art displays could adopt this approach. With proper training and collaboration, it can inspire eco-friendly cultural event management across Europe.