Polish traditions

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Slavic culture is mainly the origin of Polish traditions, and its main customs.  Also Byzantine, Ottoman, pagan or even Christian influences.  Its central position in Europe allows for a cultural mix. The roots of Poland are above all Catholic, hence the unmissable religious events of Polish culture.

The biggest celebration in Poland is Easter, it is not limited to one day but starts 40 days before, it’s Lent.Before doing Lent, there is an essential date in Poland: Fat Thursday.  The tłusty czwartek is the day when you eat lots of Polish donuts.  But also many other sweet

Easter is a symbolic holiday in Poland.  Respecting the Polish tradition at Easter is important for many Poles and their descendants.  The celebration of the Easter holidays does not end with the Polish Easter Sunday meal.  Everything starts on Saturday with an end on Monday!  Which will be described as wet.  Like a procession, on Easter Saturday, Polish families walk towards the church.  With their baskets filled with bread, sausages, eggs, salt, horseradish, cold cuts and pastries.  Each element composing this Święconka has a symbolic meaning relating to the Christian religion.  This blessed food can be eaten as part of the Easter Sunday meal. 

The Polish Easter Monday tradition is marked by the Śmigus dyngus.  This Monday is above all wet.  In true tradition, Polish men and boys watered women and girls.  This Polish Easter custom is no longer just for men.  And the whole family can go there.  In parts of Poland, the status of a married woman will protect her from watering.  But it’s safe to say that no one will be safe from the water today in Poland.  Even in some streets, or at the exit of the church, wet surprises can await you. 

Since religious marriage has the same legitimacy as civil marriage, the couple often choose to celebrate the marriage in church.

 Tradition has it that the festivities begin at the homes of the bride and groom where it is customary for parents to bless their children.  The couple and their loved ones then proceed to the ceremony venue accompanied by traditional Polish music.

 They then find their guests, friends, relatives who form a barrier when they enter the church.  In order to cross it, the bride and groom must distribute vodka and cold meats.