Polish Culture

These photos illustrate Polish culture - from its flag, to its folk art, to its holiday customs. Use these photos as a launchpad for your own Polish culture studies - what aspect of Polish culture interests you most?

Poland's folk costumes are colorfully decorated and represent different regions of Poland. Men's and women's folk costumes are often seen during holidays and festivals, when dancers entertain audiences with traditional performances.

Poland's World Heritage Sites are protected by UNESCO because of their cultural and historical significance. Tour Poland's World Heritage Sites to learn about important landmarks in Poland that have become cultural treasures.

Poland's overwhelmingly Roman Catholic population means that many Polish holidays - from Easter to All Saint's Day to Christmas -  follow the Catholic traditions. Polish holidays can affect travelers' plans in positive ways - seasonal celebrations that are unique to the time of year will provide the opportunity for a memorable cultural experience. 

Christmas in Poland encompasses both Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, but large cities in Poland take advantage of this special time of year to bedeck historic centers in lights, decorations, and Christmas trees. Christmas markets add to the festive atmosphere.

Poland's Santa Claus is most commonly known as Mikolaj, or St. Nicholas. He brings gifts on December 6th and sometimes on December 24th.

Polish Advent services are solemn religious rituals that prepare the faithful for Christmas.

Associated with fortune-telling, Andrzejki has traditionally been a day on which young ladies use divination techniques to predict future marriages.

On this day, Poles reunite with family members to honor the deceased and place candles and flowers at gravesites.

Easter in Poland is a special time of year, when religious observances and the celebration of the return of spring enable Poles to say farewell to winter weather. City centers come alive with festivals and markets, and families uphold old customs by coloring eggs and attending church services.