World Tourism Day, established by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), is celebrated every year on September 27. Its aim is to highlight the importance of tourism as a social, cultural, and economic phenomenon that connects people all over the world. It is also an opportunity to reflect on the development of sustainable tourism, which fosters the protection of cultural and natural heritage while supporting local communities. Celebrations organized in different countries remind us that traveling is not only a form of leisure, but also a way of building intercultural dialogue and mutual understanding.
World Tourism Day is an important event for all the cities that form the Shrines of Europe network – Częstochowa, Lourdes, Fatima, Altötting, Einsiedeln, Loreto, and Mariazell. Each of them emphasizes on this day that tourism and pilgrimage are not only about traveling, but also about dialogue between cultures and nations. The joint celebration demonstrates how significant cooperation between various sectors is – local governments, tourism organizations, tour guides, academia, activists, and residents. It is precisely through collaboration that it becomes possible to create an attractive and sustainable tourism offer that meets the needs of both pilgrims and tourists.
On September 29, 2025, the ceremonial celebrations of this holiday took place in the representative interiors of Częstochowa’s Town Hall, located at the city’s main square. The event was attended by representatives of the authorities, tourism organizations, business representatives, tour guides, cultural animators, and city residents.
One of the highlights of the program was honoring individuals particularly distinguished in the field of tourism. Diplomas and awards were presented to guides, activists, and event organizers who have for years contributed to making Częstochowa a destination eagerly visited by both tourists and pilgrims.
Another important moment of the gathering was a presentation by Professor Mariusz Rzętała from Jan Długosz University in Częstochowa, who took participants on a journey to distant corners of the world, emphasizing that tourism is not only about sightseeing, but also about encounters with people and cultures.
During the celebration, the Częstochowa Tourism Organization presented certificates in the following categories: best tourist product, best dish, and best souvenir from Częstochowa. The results of the art competition for children and youth, “Artistic Trails,” promoting the beauty of Częstochowa and the region, were also announced.
Take a look at the photo gallery from this unique event.
