The next step in the implementation of the public task entitled “Folk Culture Route of Suwalszczyzna (EtnoSuwalszczyzna)” financed from the funds of the Podlaskie Voivodeship, was a two-day conference devoted to the inventory of cultural resources of the Suwalszczyzna Region.

A large number of heritage enthusiasts – scientists, artists, representatives of local authorities and simply those who are familiar with the subject – gathered at the Regional Museum in Suwałki on 25-26 October 2024. Ten speakers presented their papers during the conference. Among them were ethnographers, heritage researchers, artists and collectors who have been involved in documenting and preserving the culture of the Suwałki Region for many years.

The conference was an opportunity to exchange experience, present the results of research and discuss ideas for the protection and promotion of local culture. It was also an opportunity for lively discussions – participants shared their experiences of fieldwork, debated research methodology and discussed challenges of protecting cultural heritage in a dynamically changing world. Issues related to cultural education, youth involvement in the preservation of traditions and the role of local government and cultural institutions in promoting local heritage were raised.

One of the most important conclusions of the conference was to emphasise the need for further cooperation between researchers, museum professionals, and local communities. The need to intensify educational and promotional activities was also noted, so that the cultural resources of the Suwałki region are better known and appreciated both in Poland and abroad. This will be achieved through an educational series for young people at the Suwałki Regional Museum, based on selected exhibits related to the folk culture of the Suwałki area. The exhibition and lessons are elements of the public task mentioned at the beginning, dedicated to the development of a tourist product – the ‘Suwalszczyzna Folk Culture Route’.