The Feast of the Epiphany in Polish tradition

Three Kings Day, commonly known as the Epiphany, is one of the oldest Christian holidays. Celebrated on 6 January, it symbolizes the revelation of God in the form of Christ born in Bethlehem. In current times, a holy mass is celebrated in churches on this day, and colorful processions featuring the Three Magi wind through…


Old Polish New Year's Eve and Carnival

In the old times in Poland, the period from New Year’s Eve until the end of the Carnival season was filled with carefree and imaginative fun based on folk beliefs, customs, and rituals. People played, sang, danced, and ate with abandon in the manors, houses, and taverns. A sense of rejoicing was everywhere. In addition,…


Christmas in Old Polish Times

Christmas ended the period of fasting, silence, and reflection, and began the time of joy that followed the birth of Christ. The atmosphere of Christmas, its traditions and customs, family meetings, and common carol-singing filled almost every old Polish manor house. Many Christian homes also celebrated All Souls’ Day and observed New Year’s ceremonies, which…


"God is Born": the beloved Polish Christmas carol

This beautiful carol was composed in the 18th century, a few years before the partition of Poland, and its lyrics are based on an unusual combination of oxymorons. It is set to the melody of the coronation polonaise of Polish kings. Can you imagine a more potent combination? by Piotr Bejrowski   Polish carols stand…