STREAMS OF CULTURE „religious celebration – christmas eve“ Poland

wigilia

type of the celebration and the reason for choosing one

Christmas is one of the most wonderful times during the whole year, and the most important moment during this time is one night – Christmas Eve.

2000 years ago, Jesus Christ is born ... such a little baby, but so important for the whole world.

Every year during this special night, happiness is with us, as it was with our parents, grandparents, and great-grandparents many years ago.

origin In Polish tradition proper home-celebration of "Wigilia" started not earlier that in the 18th century.

origin The name itself comming from the latin word "vigilare" meaning to watch to await.

customs and traditions

Decorating a standing Christmas tree (in the way we know it) is quite a new tradition in Poland (from the beginning of 20th century).

In old Poland we decorated a so-called “Podłaźniczka”. It was the top of a fir or spruce tree or just a branch of a pine hung under the ceiling.

The table has to be ready before the first star is seen.

Nowadays, we put some hay under the tablecloth or simply under the Christmas tree.

In Poland we begin the supper, as our ancestors did, by sharing "Opłatek" and wishing each other good health and happiness for the coming year.

Barszcz z uszkami Karp What was eaten on Christmas Eve?

Kutia Kluski z makiem Pierogi z kapustą i grzybami Gołąbki z kaszy gryczanej

Carol singing http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YKR9BzoLz2I&feature=related

At midnight all people go to church to welcome the Child during Christmas midnight mass (Pasterka). In the past they first had to ask all souls to leave the house.

original adornment connected with the religious celebration

the students' point of view (pictures, photos, text descriptions)

Explanation of specific terms in a form of a dictionary. Podłaźniczka – it was the top of a fir or spruce tree or just a branch of a pine hung under the ceiling. Opłatek - a wafer or bread that has been blessed by a priest. Barszcz czerwony z uszkami - beetroot soup with little mushroom filled dumplings. kutia - a sweet dish made of wheat, honey, nuts and raisins. Kluski z makiem – pasta mixed with poppy seeds and dried fruit.

Thank you !