2025-07-03

On June 28th, the picturesque Parc du Cinquantenaire in Brussels hosted the fourth edition of “Polish Day in Brussels.” This year’s event held particular significance, as it marked the ceremonial conclusion of Poland’s Presidency of the Council of the European Union. Among the many attractions, and at the invitation of the organizers, the Pomeranian Voivodeship was proud to take part — in collaboration with the International Amber Association (IAA) — by offering interactive workshops in Baltic amber jewelry making.

The event began at 10:00 AM and continued until late in the evening. Throughout the day, representatives of the IAA — Giedymin Jabłoński (IAA Board Member), Małgorzata Siudak (IAA Office Director), and Zofia Kaczorowska (Administrative Specialist at IAA) — led hands-on workshops where participants could create their own pieces of amber jewelry.

The official opening of the Pomeranian stand on the main stage featured a speech by Giedymin Jabłoński, who introduced the Association’s work and invited guests to visit the booth and take part in the workshops. The workshops ran in hourly rotations, with participants signing up for their chosen time slot to craft either a pair of earrings or a pendant. The process included polishing a raw piece of Baltic amber and attaching silver components. Each participant left the workshop with a finished, self-made item — a unique and personal keepsake.

But the experience went beyond just making jewelry. The facilitators shared fascinating insights about amber — its origins, age, properties, and uses. Guests eagerly asked questions and engaged in lively discussions. Each interested participant received a copy of Bursztynisko. The Amber Magazine, offering a deeper dive into the story of “Baltic gold.” A quiz about amber was also organized, with handmade amber jewelry from IAA members as prizes.

Every participant received a small gift as well — a decorative pouch containing a polished amber piece, said to bring good luck.

Based on the number of silver components prepared, we estimate that around 150 people took part in the workshops — including children, teenagers, adults, and seniors. Most participants were Polish-speaking, but we were also delighted to welcome guests from the United Kingdom, Italy, Mauritania, India, Turkey, Belgium, and France.

The level of interest in the workshops far exceeded our expectations. Participants expressed great joy and gratitude for the opportunity not only to learn about amber, but also to experience it through creative engagement. It was also a wonderful opportunity to promote Polish cultural heritage and highlight the potential of the Pomeranian region.