Christmas in Poland

This is one of the most important holidays for the Roman Catholic Church members. It is highly awaited, especially by children. Probably there are no other holidays involving as many customs as Christmas. Even though we celebrate it on 25th December, the most important celebrations take place the preceding day. It is called 'Christmas Eve'.

There is always a four weeks long period of time before the holiday which is used for preparations. It is called Advent.

24th December is a highly awaited day, since there is something special and even mysterious about it. Usually all family members sit at the same table. This is maybe the only opportunity during the whole year to watch them all gathered in one place.

One has to make preparations for Christmas Eve for a few days. There are lots of dishes to be prepared because it is said that there should be at least twelve of them. As a result, people (honestly speaking – mostly women) have to spend much time in the kitchen if they want to follow tradition.

There are only fasting dishes on the table this day. People eat fish in jelly, fried fish, different kinds of soups; according to the family tradition it might be beetroot soup, mushroom soup, fish soup or almond soup. The important tradition is exchanging Christmas greetings with the whole family. Each member shares his wafer (opłatek) with the others.

It is commonly thought that on 24th December one should fast till the supper begins. It may begin at different hours but there is a certain rule – it should not start before the first star shows up in the sky.

There are also some rules concerning how the table should be sat that day. We usually put some hay under tablecloth. What is more, there ought to be one place left at the table for an unexpected guest. As a result, there are less persons at the table than places prepared.

Even though tasting meals is very important that day, there are also other customs, which are significant and make Christmas Eve so special. It ought to be mentioned that on Christmas Eve children are given presents and Christmas carols are sung.

At the end of this evening many people take part in a special mass, called 'Pasterka'. It begins at midnight and its main purpose is to commemorate Christ’s birth.

The Boxing-day and the 26th of December are not fasting days any more so this is why delicious meats and cakes can be eaten.

MERRY CHRISTMAS from students and staff of PRIMARY SCHOOL IN CIANOWICE, poland