Wigilia (Polish pronunciation: [vʲiˈɡʲilja] ⓘ) is the traditional Christmas Eve vigil supper in Poland, held on December 24. The term is often applied to the whole of Christmas Eve, extending further to Pasterka — midnight Mass , held in Roman Catholic churches all over Poland and in Polish communities worldwide at or before midnight.

Polish Christmas traditions are different from those in any other country. Find out about these special Poland Christmas traditions (Wigilia traditions) such as keeping hay on the table and eat 12 different dishes.

It is then that the Wigilia, or Christmas Eve Dinner is served. It is a solemnly celebrated occasion and arouses deep feelings of kinship among family members. For days in advance, Poles prepare the traditional foods and everyone anxiously awaits the moment when the first star, known as the Gwiazdka, appears in the eastern sky.

Dec 14, 2021 · With December 24th fast approaching, there is much talk of Wigilia (click for pronunciation) and Polish Christmas Eve recipes and traditions. There are many differences between Christmas in Poland and the traditions I know from growing up in the United States.

Dec 19, 2022 · Wigilia, the centuries-old Christmas Eve vigil marked in Poland and by Christians of Polish descent everywhere, is a celebration steeped in symbolism. First, dinner must consist of 12 dishes, all...

Feb 25, 2022 · Enjoy a Polish-style Christmas Eve supper with these traditional Wigilia recipes, including tasty pierogis, noodles, baked fish, salads, and desserts.

Jan 3, 2024 · Wigilia, Poland’s Christmas Eve celebration, is the most crucial element of the season. While not an official day off, most businesses, if open at all, will close by around noon so that employees will have time to prepare and celebrate.

Nov 14, 2023 · Dive into the heart of Polish Christmas Eve, or Wigilia, where 12 symbolic dishes, a dash of tradition, and an empty chair welcome both family and strangers.

Dec 23, 2015 · Wigilia means vigil and in Poland this word is used for the meal that is eaten on the evening(vigil) before Christmas Day - so that is the evening meal on Christmas Eve. In Poland Christmas is celebrated from Wigilia and parties and visiting relatives and …

Discover the tradition of Wigilia and Poland's iconic Christmas Eve dishes, from pierogi to barszcz. Explore the culture behind the 12 dishes of Wigilia.