On 31 January 2026, the 54th Polish Ball in London took place, traditionally held under the patronage of His Royal Highness the Duke of Kent

Author/Editor Maria Anna Furman

On 31 January 2026, the 54th Polish Ball in London took place, traditionally held under the patronage of His Royal Highness the Duke of Kent. This event of exceptional prestige and long-standing tradition, initiated by General Władysław Anders, began in accordance with the ceremonial protocol that has set the evening's rhythm for decades. The Ball was formally opened with a traditional polonaise, followed shortly thereafter by the national anthem of the United Kingdom and then the Polish national anthem, giving the occasion a solemn, symbolic and international character.

Following the official proceedings, guests were invited to a refined dinner, which provided a natural backdrop for conversations, meetings and the first interviews. At this moment, the idea of the Polish Ball as a space for dialogue among generations, communities, and the diverse experiences of the Polish diaspora in the United Kingdom resonated most strongly.

In conversations throughout the evening, the theme of continuity repeatedly emerged—the understanding that the 54th edition is not merely a number but a symbol of a carefully nurtured tradition that gains new meaning with each passing year.

A particularly important dimension of the evening was its charitable mission. Auctions of valuable items, a silent auction, a raffle and the Tree of Fortune formed a coherent whole, all aimed at providing tangible support for the OPOKA Foundation. The Chair of the Ball, solicitor Marzena Konarzewska, emphasised that the choice of beneficiary was not accidental but a response to the foundation's concrete needs and challenges. The presence of honorary guests, the generosity of sponsors and the active engagement of participants translated into measurable results, demonstrating the strength of solidarity within Polish community circles.

The artistic programme was another integral element of the evening. A fashion presentation and the sponsorship of designer Kuba Bonecki combined aesthetics with a charitable cause, while live music added dynamism and lightness to the event, allowing guests to celebrate this exceptional evening in an atmosphere of elegance and joy.

The event was hosted with professionalism and grace by BBC journalist Kasia Madera and Polish journalist and television presenter Joanna Racewicz, who highlighted the Polish Ball's distinctiveness among other Polish community events, drawing attention to its charitable objectives and its unique fusion of tradition, prestige, and authentic emotion.

Representatives of Wyspa TV, Maria Anna Furman and Przemysław Majdak, had the honour of attending the evening as a media outlet covering the event. A particular distinction for us was the opportunity to meet and speak with Anna Maria Anders, former Ambassador of the Republic of Poland to Italy and daughter of General Władysław Anders, who, in an interview, shared her reflections on the significance of the Polish Ball as a living vessel of memory, values and responsibility towards the community.

We extend our sincere gratitude to the entire Polish Ball Committee for their trust and for continuing our cooperation. Special thanks are due to solicitor Marzena Konarzewska, Chair of the Polish Ball, whose consistency, dedication, and immense effort ensure this event is delivered at the highest level.

Once again, the 54th Polish Ball confirmed that it is not only an elegant social occasion but also a space for dialogue, social responsibility, and the shared celebration of values that have united the Polish community in the United Kingdom for more than half a century.

Author / Editor: Maria Anna Furman