Polish municipalities disclose high artist fees for local events

Public records from the Central Register of Contracts reveal the significant costs incurred by Polish local governments to host popular musical acts at summer festivals and harvest celebrations.

Documents show that disco polo artist Skolim has received payments such as 55,000 PLN from the Płock District Starosty and 60,000 PLN from the Sochaczew municipality for performances scheduled in 2026. Other artists, such as the group Modelki, reportedly earned between 65,000 PLN and nearly 90,000 PLN in various locations.

Other high-profile performers command substantial fees, including Kayah at 108,000 PLN and Agnieszka Chylińska at 100,000 PLN. While these events are often free for the public, the costs for stages, sound equipment, and artist honoraria are covered by organizers.

Paweł Kamiński, president of the Association of Directors of Local Government Cultural Institutions, has criticized these expenditures. He argued that spending large sums on top performers focuses on "games and shows" rather than genuine cultural development or resident education.