200th anniversary of the world's railways and 100th anniversary of PKP

2026 will be a special year for the Polish railway industry – we will be celebrating the centenary of Polish State Railways (PKP). This is a unique opportunity to sum up a hundred years of development, modernisation and passion that has driven railway workers and rail enthusiasts across generations. This anniversary takes on symbolic significance in the context of another important event – the 200th anniversary of world railways, falling in 2025.

These two anniversaries create a unique space for celebration, both for the entire rail industry and for its enthusiasts in Poland and around the world.

We will begin the official celebrations this autumn – during the TRAKO International Railway Fair. The date of the fair precedes the symbolic birthday of the railway. On 27 September 1825, the 19-kilometre railway line from Stockton to Darlington was ceremonially opened.

The fair will host the first anniversary highlights, heralding the year-long celebrations and initiatives planned for 2026. TRAKO will be an opportunity not only to present technical and organisational achievements, but also to reflect on the history and future of the railway.

Both the 200th anniversary of world railways and the 100th anniversary of PKP are a reminder of the enormous role the railway plays in building modern societies and connecting people, regions and economies. Celebrating these anniversaries together is not only an honouring of the past, but also an inspiration for further development with the future of transport in mind.

We invite you to join the celebrations and share your passion for railways!