The origin of the Lajkonik is uncertain, but there are some common stories associated with its popularity.
Whatever the origin, the city continues the tradition with a festival that has taken place every June for the past 700 years. The Lajkonik is man dressed up as a warrior from the east. He rides a prancing white hobbyhorse through the city streets from the Premonstratensian (Norbertine) Convent in Zwierzyniec to the Main Market Square. People in traditional folklore dress accompany him while others are adorned by oriental garments and hold horsetail insignia in their hands. The procession winds its way through the historic streets in the city, followed by musicians, children, and revelers. On his way the Lajkonik touches spectators with his golden mace and collects money for the traditional ransom. Being touched by Lajkonik's mace is claimed to bring good luck. At the Market Square, the mayor of the city awaits the Lajkonik with a pile of ransom money and a chalice with which they make a toast to the wellbeing of Kraków and its inhabitants. Music and dancing continues in front of the Old Tower Hall at the Main Square.
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