Traditionally, Poles commemorate All Saints’ Day on November 1, a holiday dedicated to remembering deceased loved ones by visiting their graves, lighting candles and leaving flowers as a symbol of remembrance.
Many people feel this day wouldn’t be complete without spending time at cemeteries, tidying the graves, and reflecting on those who have passed.
Blending Halloween and All Saints' Day
Recently, however, Halloween has started to gain popularity in Poland, especially among the younger generations. Children and teens now enjoy costume parties, and Halloween-themed decorations, candy and costumes have become common on store shelves.
A Halloween celebration is also a great way to bond with Ukrainian youth in many parts of Poland, who have had to continue their education abroad due to the war.
While ultra-conservative and Catholic circles have long tried to create Halloween alternatives for All Saints' Eve, these initiatives are often met with humor or indifference.
One local government has taken a more playful approach, implementing an alternative celebration for the first time this year with a unique twist.
'Angel Day': Halloween with a twist
In Siemianowice Śląskie, a southern Polish city, local authorities on Thursday launched an event called Angel Day as a "positive option," centering on good deeds rather than traditional Halloween customs.
Instead of trick-or-treating, the day emphasizes acts of kindness, with participants performing small gestures for their neighbors.
In Siemianowice Śląskie in southern Poland, local authorities celebrate “Angel Day” as an alternative to Halloween.
Happy Halloween from the Polish Radio English team! And Happy Diwali to all our Indian followers 🪔
Opublikowany przez Radio Poland Środa, 30 października 2024
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