Polish Easter has become increasingly internationally-known for its curious customs, and none more so than that which is celebrated under the name of Śmigus Dyngus.
The oldest Christmas carol in Poland dates back to 1424 and was called Zdrów Bądź, Królu Anjelski (Praised Be, Lord of Angels). Since then the tradition has thrived, with one carol, Bóg Się Rodzi (God is Born) almost becoming Poland’s national anthem in 1792.
Toruń’s gingerbread tradition dates back to the Middle Ages, with the first mention of it coming in 1380 when a baker named Niclos Czan was recorded as producing the delicacy.
Whilst Święty Mikołaj (Father Christmas, Saint Nicholas or Santa Claus) still remains the most widespread, families in some parts of Poland recognise visits from Gwiazdor (‘Starman’), Dziadek Mróz (Grandfather Frost), Aniołek (the Angel), Dzieciątko (the child) and Gwiazdka (star).
The small town of Łowicz will erupt into colour today as locals take to the streets to celebrate Corpus Christi (Boże Ciało).
In Poland the Easter traditions come rich, thick and fast. From the blessing of baskets of food to pouring water over women, the country boasts a glorious mix of traditions that set the Easter holiday apart from all others.
Hosted by the Upper Silesian Museum in Bytom, the exhibition seeks to spotlight an ancient custom relating to so-called Kroszonki, elaborately painted eggs engraved with often floral motifs.
How Poland celebrated Christmas in the 1960s and 1970s is the subject of a fascinating new exhibition organised by the Polish Press Agency (PAP).
On the last three days of December, men in the village of Sławatycze dress up in carefully crafted costumes, wear fake beards and chase young women and children with sticks to say goodbye to the old year. But no one can remember how or when it started.
The UNESCO recognised tradition of making stunningly intricate and colourful models of nativity scenes set within the Kraków cityscape dates back to the 19th century when the idea was initiated one winter among local unemployed bricklayers and carpenters.
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