Public holidays in Poland: a guide for foreign workers

Welcome to Poland – a land of rich history, culture, and… public holidays! If you’re a foreigner working in Poland, this post is for you. Understanding local holidays and days off is crucial, not only to know when offices and agencies are closed but also to better grasp Polish culture and traditions. In this guide, we present everything you need to know about public holidays in Poland.

Introduction to Polish Holidays

We start the year with New Year’s Day, celebrated on January 1st. It’s a time for celebration and welcoming the new year, often with fireworks and parties until dawn. It is an official day off from work, meaning most workplaces and offices are closed.

Epiphany – January 6th

The next holiday, Epiphany (Three Kings’ Day), falls on January 6th. It is a day off, during which Poles participate in festive marches and parades, celebrating the arrival of the Three Wise Men in Bethlehem.

Easter

Easter is the most important Christian holiday, usually celebrated in March or April (the date varies). Polish tradition dictates spending this time with family, and the days off include Good Friday, Easter Sunday, and Easter Monday. It is a time full of traditional dishes, egg painting, and communal breakfasts.

Labour Day – May 1st

Labour Day, celebrated on May 1st, is an international day celebrating workers’ rights. In Poland, it is an official day off from work.

Constitution Day – May 3rd

Celebrated on May 3rd, it commemorates the adoption of the Constitution of May 3rd, 1791 – one of the first constitutions in Europe. It is a day off from work, often celebrated with various public events and festivities.

Corpus Christi

Corpus Christi, celebrated in early June (the date varies), is a Catholic feast of the Body of Christ. In Poland, it is a day off from work, characterized by street processions in which the faithful carry relics and religious symbols.

Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary – August 15th

This Catholic holiday coincides with Armed Forces Day, celebrated in memory of the victory of the Battle of Warsaw in 1920. It is an official day off from work.

All Saints’ Day – November 1st

November 1st in Poland is celebrated as All Saints’ Day. On this day, Poles visit the graves of loved ones, light candles, and pray for the deceased. It is a time of reflection and remembrance of those who have passed, but also an opportunity for family gatherings. This day is a day off from work, allowing most people to spend it with their family.

Independence Day – November 11th

November 11th is National Independence Day, commemorating Poland’s regaining of independence in 1918. This day is celebrated with great patriotism, including parades, concerts, and various public ceremonies. It is also a day off from work, facilitating participation in the celebrations.

Christmas – December 25th and 26th

Christmas is a magical time, primarily spent with family. In Poland, the Christmas holidays include two days off from work – December 25th and 26th. Traditions associated with this period include Christmas Eve dinners, sharing of the Christmas wafer, and singing carols. It’s a time when Polish homes are filled with love, joy, and festive dishes.

Public holidays in Poland are not only an opportunity for rest but also to participate in the cultural and traditional life of the country. For foreigners working in Poland, understanding these days can be key to better understanding Polish culture and history.

Remember, planning work and professional meetings in Poland requires taking these days off into account to avoid misunderstandings and ensure that all parties are up-to-date with the schedule. It’s also a great opportunity to take a break from daily duties and immerse yourself in the rich culture and traditions of Poland.

We hope this guide helps you better understand and appreciate Polish holidays and days off from work. Welcome to Poland and enjoy each of these special days!

Time2work and time2legal

Under Polish labor law, you are entitled to full pay for any such day – as long as the holiday happens to fall from Monday to Friday. If the holiday falls on Saturday, the day off can be taken at another time, and if it falls on Sunday, there are no additional benefits for it.

Are you looking for a job in Poland? Job offers can be found on our website, and as work in Poland should always be legal we cooperate with time2legal, a company through which you can obtain a visa and TRC which will enable you to work legally in Poland.