Christmas Eve
Nationwide public holiday in Poland · Wigilia Bożego Narodzenia
Dates
| Year | Date | Weekday | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 24 December | Thursday | Nationwide |
| 2027 | 24 December | Friday | Nationwide |
Where it applies
Everywhere in Poland.
Is it a day off?
Yes. It is an official public holiday, so most employees have the day off. Government offices, schools and many businesses are usually closed; shops, restaurants and public transport may keep reduced hours. Check local announcements for opening times.
Make it longer
Thu 24 Dec – Sun 27 Dec is a 4-day weekend with no leave needed.
Plan more breaks with the leave planner.
Typical weather in Warsaw around 24 December: high 3°C (38°F), low -1°C (30°F), rain on 57% of days.
Averages for 2015–2024, 3 days either side of the date, for the area around Warsaw. Past averages, not a forecast.
Forecast for Thursday 24 December in Warsaw: (MET Norway)
About Christmas Eve
Christmas Eve, Wigilia, is the most important part of Christmas in Poland and is centred on a family supper. It is a public holiday in Poland. The name comes from the Latin word for vigil, as the evening is a time of waiting for the birth of Christ.
Traditions
Supper traditionally begins when the first star appears in the sky. Family members share the opłatek, a thin wafer, and exchange wishes. The meal is meatless and often has twelve dishes, such as beetroot soup with small dumplings, carp, pierogi and dried fruit compote. An extra place is often set for an unexpected guest, and many attend Midnight Mass, Pasterka.
Editorial summary by Public Holidays World. Dates on this page come from the data source; customs vary by region and family.
Coming up next in Poland
Friday, 25 December 2026
Christmas Eve in other countries
Åland Islands
Bulgaria
Czechia
Estonia
Faroe Islands
Finland
Latvia
Lithuania
Slovakia
Vatican City
Philippines
South Sudan
More for Poland
Holiday dates are for general information and can change. Official government announcements take precedence.