2026 Heritage Polonia Program

It's Here: Discover Poland in 2026

June 14th through June 25th

This once-in-a-lifetime journey through Poland is a deep dive into history, culture, and modern leadership, connecting participants with their heritage in a way that’s both personal and transformative. From dynamic cities to breathtaking landscapes, each destination tells a story of resilience, progress, and pride.

Warsaw – Poland’s vibrant capital blends the echoes of history with cutting-edge innovation. Walk the storied streets of the Old Town, rebuilt from the ashes of war, and step into the future in the city’s thriving business, government and cultural districts.
Sopot – Known as the “Jewel of the Baltic,” Sopot offers a striking balance of elegance and ease. Its sunlit beaches, iconic wooden pier, and seaside promenade create an atmosphere of reflection and rejuvenation. This coastal retreat invites participants to unwind while connecting with Poland’s spirit of renewal and maritime tradition.
Gdańsk – The gateway to the Baltic and the cradle of the Solidarity movement, Gdańsk is a city where past and present collide. Its colorful facades and maritime legacy make it one of Poland’s most picturesque and historically significant locations.
Kraków – A city of kings and scholars, Kraków is Poland’s cultural and intellectual epicenter. From the majestic Wawel Castle to the charming streets of Kazimierz, every corner speaks of Poland’s rich past and dynamic future.
Zakopane – Nestled in the Tatra Mountains, Zakopane is Poland’s adventure capital and a sanctuary of folklore. Whether you’re savoring traditional highlander cuisine or taking in panoramic alpine views, this town embodies Poland’s wild beauty and enduring spirit.

ORD-WAW

June 14: Bags are packed and anticipation fills the air. The cohort gathers at Chicago’s O’Hare Airport, ready to embark on a transatlantic journey that bridges continents and generations. The flight marks the beginning of something greater — a passage toward discovery, identity, and leadership.

Warsaw

Touching down in Warsaw, participants are welcomed to Poland’s capital and introduced to the Heritage Polonia experience. Between a stroll through Old Town and a sunset dinner, the day invites reflection on heritage and the promise of what lies ahead.

Warsaw

A day at the heart of Polish diplomacy. Participants engage with government and business leaders at the Presidential Palace, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the U.S. Embassy, gaining a first-hand look at international relations shaping today’s Poland.

Warsaw

Exploring Warsaw’s timeless beauty and resilient spirit, participants journey through the Royal Route and the Warsaw Uprising Museum before departing by train to the Baltic coast—where history meets renewal in the city of Gdańsk.

Sopot

A short journey from Gdańsk leads to the serene seaside town of Sopot — a day designed for renewal and perspective. Walk the wooden pier, engage in guided reflection by the sea, and join a mentorship discussion that connects heritage to modern leadership in motion.

Gdańsk

Gdańsk, a city of freedom and transformation, welcomes delegates to the European Solidarity Centre and a private meeting with a special VIP. Conversations on leadership and legacy set the tone before traveling onward to Kraków.

Kraków

In Poland’s cultural capital, participants explore the grandeur of Wawel Castle and the charm of Kraków’s Old Market Square. The day culminates in a visit to the storied Wieliczka Salt Mine—an awe-inspiring reminder of Poland’s enduring craftsmanship.

Auschwitz

A solemn and powerful day devoted to remembrance. Delegates visit Auschwitz-Birkenau to honor those lost, followed by personal reflection circles and a genealogy workshop connecting past to present through family history.

Kraków

In Kraków, delegates meet one-on-one with Poland’s business leaders shaping the nation’s future. Conversations of innovation and vision give way to reflection as the group travels south to Zakopane—where dialogue turns to discovery in the heart of the Tatra Mountains.

Morskie Oko

Immersed in the natural majesty of the Tatra Mountains, participants embark on a guided excursion to Morskie Oko. The day balances exploration with conversation, blending leadership and mentorship amid Poland’s breathtaking alpine scenery.

Warsaw

We return to Warsaw for an afternoon business meeting with a leading corporate executive who will offer insight into Poland’s evolving economy, before participants explore local markets. The journey concludes with a farewell dinner honoring shared experiences and the lasting connections forged along the way.

WAW-ORD

As our cohort depart for Chicago, they carry with them not only memories of Poland’s beauty and resilience but a renewed sense of purpose—joining the global network of Heritage Polonia alumni dedicated to leadership, culture, and legacy.

Get to know these flags—you’ll be seeing them on your journey!

The program is simply incredible. It felt almost too good to be true. It’s easy to just say that it was a life changing experience, but it truly was. To be honest, it was the best 10 days of my life. I wish to go again!

Rating

★★★★★

The places we visited, the food we ate, and the atmosphere was phenomenal. This trip is the first time I can say that I think I’ll be keeping in touch with the people on the trip for life.

Rating

★★★★★

This was truly a once in a lifetime experience which I will never forget. I learned so much about my culture on this trip and I’ve made so many connections and memories which I will treasure forever.