Christmas Eve, or Wigilia, holds a special place in Polish culture, characterized by warmth, family gatherings, and rich traditions. This year, celebrations across Poland reflective of community spirit and charity took center stage, as various organizations came together to support those less fortunate.
One notable event was the "Wigilia pod Wiaduktem" (Wigilia under the viaduct) held for homeless individuals in Cieszyn. Approximately 60 people attended, sharing festive foods and the traditional oplatek, or Christmas wafer. Organizers and volunteers from the Buła Cieszy(n) initiative worked tirelessly for weeks, led by Janusz Mendera, to prepare the event. Mendera commented, "Wigilia w tym roku to fantastyczne logistyczne wyzwanie. Bo jak inaczej podsumować plenerową imprezę na 80 osób, organizowaną bez pieniędzy?" (This year’s Wigilia was a fantastic logistical challenge. How else to summarize an outdoor event for 80 people organized without money?).
This initiative, which offers food and companionship to the homeless, is part of broader efforts by local foundations to provide support during the holidays. The success of the event relied on around 30 volunteers and donations from the community, highlighting the spirit of giving. Attendees enjoyed traditional dishes such as fried fish, sauerkraut, and homemade sweets, leaving with bags of food and hygiene products.
Meanwhile, other gatherings across the country also aimed to bring joy to those who find themselves alone during the holidays. The Metropolitan Christmas Eve for the Lonely, organized at the International Congress Center in Katowice, was open to anyone who needed companionship. Aleksandra Kosiorek, the event's coordinator, emphasized ease of access, stating, "Wystarczy przyjść..." (You just need to come). Participants were not required to register or sign up, creating an inviting atmosphere for all.
Another major event, the nationwide Caritas Christmas Eve, united 25,000 people across 90 cities, serving as one of Poland's largest charitable initiatives. With over 17 kilometers of white tablecloths laid out for the celebrations, the event underscored the importance of unity and support during difficult times. Cezary Furmanowicz from Selgros expressed the sentiment perfectly: "Święta to czas, który przypomina nam, jak ważne jest wsparcie i solidarność..." (Christmas is a time reminding us of the importance of support and solidarity).
Despite some challenges, such as rising food costs due to inflation—predicted to increase by 5.2% this year (according to reports)—the spirit of giving prevailed. Many families and individuals are seeking savings by shopping at stores offering discounts on holiday goods.
The cultural significance of these events extended beyond mere dinners; they included the beloved tradition of watching Christmas classics like "Kevin sam w domu" (Home Alone). Aneta Zając, known for her role in the series "Pierwsza miłość," shared her family's practice, noting, "Dzieci co roku z radością czekają na ten moment i zawsze mówią: O! Jest Kevin!" (The children eagerly await this moment each year, saying: Oh! Kevin is on!). This tradition highlights how film and festive gatherings create lasting memories for families.
The atmosphere during these celebrations is filled with joy, singing, and the exchange of gifts, reinforcing the need for compassion and connection, especially for those feeling isolated. The communal effort behind these gatherings showcases how the Polish people embody solidarity and kindness during the holiday season.
On December 24th, many join together to extend warm greetings, share food, and create new traditions, reminding us of the essence of Christmas. With events like Caritas hosting dinners, families reconnecting through shared films, and spirited volunteers reaching out to the vulnerable, the heart of Christmas is alive and well throughout Poland. Each gathering, each shared meal, and each moment of warmth reinforces the spirit of giving, leaving no one behind this holiday season.
