FAQ
About the event
What is Guitar World Record?
It is the world’s largest guitar orchestra. Every year on May 1, thousands of guitarists gather on Wrocław Market Square to play Jimi Hendrix’s “Hey Joe”, or more precisely “Hey Joe – A New Story”, with a new positive message.
In 2025, 8122 guitarists played together.
Where does the event take place?
On Wrocław Market Square and on nearby stages around the square.
When does the event take place?
Every year on May 1. Concerts and side events start from 10:00.
It is worth arriving in the morning to enjoy the full program and get ready for the official record attempt at 16:00.
Is the event free?
Yes. Participation in the event and playing together on the Market Square is free of charge.
Taking part in the record attempt
What do I need to do to take part?
You only need three things:
- bring a guitar or a related string instrument
- know the 5 basic Hey Joe chords: C, G, D, A, E
- register your participation and come to Wrocław Market Square on May 1 with your instrument
Do I need to register in advance?
It is not mandatory, but it is strongly recommended. Online registration makes the on-site process much faster.
Do I need to confirm my participation on-site?
Yes. Every participant must confirm their participation in person on May 1 at the registration point.
What time does on-site registration start?
Participant registration starts at 10:00.
Can school groups take part?
Yes. Many music schools and guitar groups come to the event together.
If you let us know in advance, we can also mention your group from the stage.
Can I take photos or record video?
Yes. We encourage everyone to document the event and share it on social media.
Instruments and preparation
Which instruments count in the record?
The record includes, among others:
- acoustic guitar
- classical guitar
- electric guitar
- bass guitar
- ukulele
- mandolin
- banjo
- other related string instruments
I do not have my own instrument. Can I still come?
Yes, you can come as part of the audience, but only people playing an instrument count toward the official record.
There will be instrument rentals on-site, both hourly and longer term, plus small accessories for sale.
Do I need to be a professional guitarist?
No. Knowing the 5 chords to “Hey Joe” is enough to join the group performance.
Music and playing
Which song do we play to set the record?
The mandatory song is Jimi Hendrix’s “Hey Joe”.
Do we play only one song?
No. During the day we also play other well-known guitar songs, and invited artists perform live concerts.
Program details are published regularly in our online channels.
Where can I learn “Hey Joe”?
You can start with Leszek Cichoński’s tutorial.
We also teach Hey Joe during the event itself. Look for the Akademia 360 tent in the kids’ zone.
On site
Can I come with my child?
Yes. Children and underage participants are welcome at the event.
There will also be dedicated activities for families in the kids’ zone.
Do I need a ticket?
No. The event on the Market Square is free.
Will there be concerts on site?
Yes. Throughout the day there are guitar concerts, jam sessions, and performances by special guests.
Can I come just to listen?
Of course. The audience is very welcome – you do not need to play guitar to be part of the event.
Logistics
What time is best to arrive?
It is best to arrive from the start of the event, around 10:00, so you can register comfortably and join the rehearsals.
Does the event happen in any weather?
Yes. It is an outdoor event, so it is worth preparing for changing weather conditions.
Can I buy food and drinks nearby?
Yes. There are food and drink options available around the Market Square.
Who organizes Guitar World Record?
The event is organized by SWIK Nasze Miasto Wrocław, with Fundacja Gitarowa Leszka Cichońskiego as co-organizer.
The creator and artistic director of the record is Leszek Cichoński.
