Polish folk dances are a vibrant tradition spanning ten centuries, characterized by energetic, joyful movements distinct from those of neighboring cultures. The five most prominent "National Dances" are the Krakowiak, Mazurek, Oberek, Kujawiak, and Polonaise, which gained formal ballroom and ballet influences after Napoleon's expansion into Central and Eastern Europe. These dances showcase a wide range of styles, from the fast, athletic leaps of the Oberek and the syncopated Krakowiak to the stately Polonaise (often the first dance at large events) and the romantic, slow Kujawiak.
Famed composer Frédéric Chopin notably incorporated Polish folklore into his musical works, promoting these unique forms abroad. Today, these captivating dances are primarily performed during major events, holidays, or in tourist-oriented settings, alongside diverse regional variations from areas like Podhale and Silesia.