Ho-ho-holidays! Your ultimate guide to Christmas in Poland

If there is one Christmas tradition that unites Poles, it’s not decking out our homes – but obsessing over Kevin McCallister. Find out why this 90s classic remains a national treasure. (Yes, indeed – it airs every Christmas Eve, but no, somehow, no one’s tired of it.)

Raise your hand if you’ve ever panicked and bought socks or a candle for you loved ones. (Huh, so you bought these things and somehow still have your hands attached? I’m impressed!) We have some tips to ensure your gifts are thoughtful and won’t cost you an arm and a leg.

Twinkling lights, aromatic gingerbread, and decorations that almost seem to scream “Poland”? We’ve scoured the country to bring you the must-visit Christmas markets where the vibe is as magical as Santa’s workshop. And as cluttered, as well.

Did you know you’re supposed to leave an extra plate at the table? Or that the fish scales from your Christmas carp might bring you luck? Discover the quirks and customs that make a Polish Christmas one to remember.

From 12-course dinners (no, we’re not kidding – you better bring your fanciest and widest sweatpants) to weird traditions, Poland doesn’t do Christmas by halves. Here’s why the Polish festive season is the ultimate holiday extravaganza.

Wham, bam, thank you, “Wham”! But despite George Michael’s big brown eyes and even bigger golden perm, to your soulful “Last Christmas”, we Poles must say – there’s a new sheriff in town! It’s those Polish carols (aka. kolędy) and modern Christmas tunes that are the soundtracks to every Polish December. Bonus points if you can sing along in Polish – and no worries if you don’t quite know the lyrics – in all honesty, most of Poles make them up as they go along with the song…

The Polish office Christmas party (wigilia firmowa) tends to be in equal parts awkward and charming. Want to navigate it like a pro? We’ve got the lowdown on traditions, etiquette, and how much pierogi you can eat before it gets too weird.

Wesołych Świąt!