Valentine's Day is rather a big holiday in Poland, but not very old. It isn't a Polish tradition and it came to our country at the end of 90. in XX century from France, Germany and America. Now it is very popular rather among young people - teenagers and kids celebrate this holiday at school and in their houses. They send handmade Valentine's cards, bake cakes, buy cute toys (like teddy bears with red heart), give or get flowers especially red roses, sweets or some personal gifts. There are some events at schools like quizzes, contests, shows, dancing and singing. Adults usually go out in the evening to the restaurant and the cinema or buy jewellery or lingerie. Some people go for short trips.

Valentine's Day in our school.

Not everyone accepts this holiday because of commercial character of this event. Some weeks before 14th February public places (shops, streets) are decorated with red hearts, flowers and other symbols of love. Traders insist to buy sweets, lollipops, boxes of chocolate, soft toys etc. Restaurants tempt by special offer for lovers. Some people treat this holiday like an example of americanization of our culture and are afraid that this custom will oust Polish traditions.

Polish equivalent of Valentines is Noc Kupały called Sobótka or Noc Świętojańska celebrated at night 21/22th June. At this night people used to get in pairs. It is the shortest night and it's a holiday of fire, water, sun, moon, joy, love, fertility and harvest.

Men jump through the fire to protect from bad luck and evil and to get cleaned. Herbs are burnt in the fire.

People dance and try to tell fortunes. Girls make wreaths and throw them in the river to find out when they get married.

Many people look for fern's flower which brings wealth, power and wisdom.