For the first time, a British citizen of Polish descent, Bronek Masojada, will take office as Lord Mayor of the City of London, with Polish organisations joining the traditional procession to celebrate this milestone.

A Historic Moment for the Polish Community

This year’s Lord Mayor’s Show will be particularly significant for the Polish community in Great Britain. Bronek Masojada will become the first British citizen of Polish descent to hold the prestigious position of Lord Mayor of the City of London.

To mark the occasion, the Federation of Poles in Great Britain (Zjednoczenie Polskie w Wielkiej Brytanii) has been invited to participate in the parade alongside the Mazury Song and Dance Ensemble and the Polish Scouting Association in Great Britain (ZHP).

Together, they will represent the Polish community through traditional folk costumes, music, dance and the red-and-white colours of the Polish flag, bringing Polish cultural heritage to one of London’s most celebrated public events.

The Federation of Poles in Great Britain has also highlighted its previous connection with Bronek Masojada, who attended the organisation’s commemoration of the 80th anniversary of the Battle of Monte Cassino, held at the UK Parliament in 2024.

The Polish community is warmly encouraged to attend the parade, bring family and friends, and support the Polish contingent by waving Polish flags along the route.

An 811-Year-Old London Tradition

Dating back to year 1215, the Lord Mayor’s Show is one of London’s oldest ceremonial traditions. The annual event celebrates the inauguration of the Lord Mayor of the City of London and brings together thousands of participants from across the UK and around the world.

This year’s procession will feature approximately 6,500 participants, 250 horses and more than 50 decorated floats, travelling along a 2.86-mile route through the historic Square Mile.

More than 350,000 spectators are expected to line the streets, with millions more able to follow the celebrations live on BBC One and online.

The parade will begin at 11:00 am at Mansion House, travelling via Cheapside and St Paul’s Cathedral towards the Royal Courts of Justice before returning to Mansion House.

A Historic Journey Along the Thames

Before the procession begins, Bronek Masojada will revive a historic tradition by travelling along the River Thames in a ceremonial barge.

At 8:30 am, he will depart Westminster aboard the Royal Shallop Jubilant, accompanied by his wife, the Sheriffs of the City of London and a flotilla of 15 Livery boats.

The journey will conclude at HMS President, where he will disembark before joining the main procession.

The river journey recalls the historic route once taken by Lord Mayors travelling to Westminster to swear loyalty to the Crown.

The Show will be Masojada’s first public engagement following the traditional Silent Ceremony on Friday, 13 November, when he formally takes office.

International Performances and Celebrations

The 2026 parade will feature a wide range of cultural performances, community organisations, military bands and ceremonial displays.

Alongside the Polish participants, international performers will include Grammy Award-winning South African dance group INALA, German and Swiss bands, and the US Navy Band, participating as the United States celebrates its 250th anniversary.

The Royal Navy will provide the Guard of Honour and parade the King’s Colour to mark King Charles III’s 78th birthday.

Other highlights will include 450 RAF Air Cadets celebrating their 80th anniversary, a model of Tower Bridge presented by the City Bridge Foundation, and a special musical tribute to Beatles producer Sir George Martin by the Guildhall School of Music & Drama.

The event also marks 100 years since the BBC first broadcast the Lord Mayor’s Show live on radio in 1926.

Bronek Masojada’s Role as Lord Mayor

During his year in office, Bronek Masojada will serve as an international ambassador for the UK’s financial and professional services sector, promoting investment, strengthening international business relationships and supporting economic opportunities.

Reflecting on the occasion, Masojada said:

“Beginning my first public engagement as Lord Mayor on the Thames will be a very special moment.”

He also emphasised the importance of creating opportunities for future generations and celebrating the communities that contribute to the City of London.

Event Information

Lord Mayor’s Show 2026

• Date: Saturday, 14 November 2026
• Time: From 11:00 am
• Location: City of London
• Route: Mansion House – Cheapside – St Paul’s Cathedral – Royal Courts of Justice – Mansion House
• Admission: Free
• Live broadcast: BBC One and online

Visitors are encouraged to use public transport, as extensive road closures will be in place throughout the City of London.

For information about the procession, accessibility and recommended viewing locations, visit the official website:

www.lordmayorsshow.london

The participation of Polish organisations in this year’s Lord Mayor’s Show offers a special opportunity to celebrate Polish heritage and the contribution of the Polish community to British public life.