Easter Monday in Poland

Easter Monday, which falls after Easter Day (Wielkanoc), is a national holiday in Poland. It commemorates the resurrection of Jesus Christ.

Easter Monday follows from Easter Sunday, which celebrates the Christian belief of Jesus Christ's resurrection.

©iStockphoto.com/ Marcus Lindström

What do people do?

Smigus Dyngus is a tradition in which people use bucket pails or water guns to soak each other with water. Another event is the Emaus fair in Krakow, where people set up stalls of candy, toys and trinkets.

Public life

Easter Monday is an official public holiday in Poland, so schools, banks, government offices and most private businesses are closed. There is a trade prohibition on public holidays in Poland. People intending to travel via public transport during public holidays must check with the public transit authorities on any changes to time schedules.

Background

Easter Monday follows from Easter Sunday which commemorates when Jesus Christ was resurrected 2 days after his death. Many Easter activities can be traced back to Pagan traditions and celebrations. For example, the name Easter is believed to come from Eostara, the goddess of rebirth. The Easter date depends on the ecclesiastical approximation of the March equinox. In 325 CE the Council of Nicaea decided that the Easter date would be the first Sunday after the first full moon occurring on or after the March equinox. Easter Monday is observed in other places in the world.

Symbols

Easter eggs symbolize rebirth and life’s victory over death, while bread symbolizes Jesus Christ’s body. Smoked meat is believed to give good health, wealth, and fertility, while salt wards off evil. Cheese represents friendship, and horseradish symbolizes strength and fitness.

About Easter Monday in other countries

Easter Monday Observances

Related holidays

• Easter Day ―Sunday, March 31, 2013
• Holy Saturday ―Saturday, March 30, 2013
• Good Friday ―Friday, March 29, 2013

Other holidays in April 2013 in Poland