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Santa's landing cleared by Polish air force for gift drop-off

06.12.2024 17:00
In Poland, where tradition holds that Santa Claus delivers the season's first presents on December 6, St. Nicholas Day, many businesses and institutions are going above and beyond to spread holiday cheer.
Santa made an early touchdown in Europe this season, arriving on Wednesday at Łódź Airport in central Poland. His cargo? A sleigh full of gifts for children from local orphanages, proving once again that even the busiest man in December makes time for charity.
Santa made an early touchdown in Europe this season, arriving on Wednesday at Łódź Airport in central Poland. His cargo? A sleigh full of gifts for children from local orphanages, proving once again that even the busiest man in December makes time for charity.Photo: PAP/Grzegorz Michałowski

Earlier this week, the Polish Armed Forces officially greenlighted Santa's landing in Polish airspace, ensuring his safe passage to deliver gifts.

The first stop? The central city of Łódź, where Santa kicked off the holiday magic with camaraderie soaring high—both on the ground and in the skies.

Santa Claus arrived at Władysław Reymont Airport in Łódź, central Poland, on December 4th as part of the 8th edition of the charity event "Santa Claus' Landing." He brought gifts for children from orphanages, spreading holiday cheer through this heartwarming initiative (photo: PAP/G.Michałowski)

Santa touched down at Władysław Reymont Airport in Łódź, central Poland, on December 4, just in time for the 8th edition of the annual "Santa Claus' Landing" charity event. He brought gifts for children from orphanages, spreading holiday cheer through this heartwarming initiative. Photo: PAP/G.Michałowski

Meanwhile, in the run-up to the holidays, the country also launched several high-profile charity initiatives, including the "Christmas Table of Pajacyk," a project by the Polish Humanitarian Action (PAH), which provides meals for children and youth in need.

This year, 330 Polish restaurants, cafes and food service chains are pitching in, donating 10 percent of their proceeds to support the feeding of the country's poorest children—many of whom do not always have access to a hot meal at home.

Last year’s campaign raised nearly PLN 100,000 (EUR 23,400), with some of the funds going to pay for psychological support for children.

This year, additional funds will be directed towards helping victims of September's floods.

The PAH charity initiative has sparked widespread support across the nation, as the season of giving enters full swing.

PAH Source: PAH/X/@DowOperSZ

(mp/gs)