Looking for birthday traditions in Poland? We’ve gathered the complete guide for Polish birthday traditions – including how they celebrate, gifting etiquette, and traditional food and drink.
Birthdays are filled with unique traditions and festivities. Add to the celebrations with an unforgettable gift experience or a thoughtful gift.
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Unique Birthday Traditions in Poland
- Prywatki: Home parties which are a long-standing tradition in Poland.
- Sto lat: The birthday chant in Poland means “100 years,” and everyone sings it to wish the birthday person a long and happy life.
How to say “Happy Birthday” in Polish?
In Polish, ‘Happy Birthday’ translates to ‘Wszystkiego najlepszego z okazji urodzin’. It’s a common phrase used to celebrate birthdays.
Here are a few more ways to say Happy Birthday in Polish:
- Niech Twoje urodziny będą słodkie jak ciasto i jasne jak świece. Wszystkiego najlepszego z okazji urodzin! (May your birthday be as sweet as cake and as bright as candles. Happy birthday!)
- Przesyłam Ci ciepłe życzenia i uściski w tym wyjątkowym dniu. Wszystkiego najlepszego z okazji urodzin! (Sending you warm wishes and big hugs on your special day. Happy birthday!)
- Dziś jest dzień, w którym chcemy uczcić Ciebie i niesamowitą osobę, którą jesteś. Wszystkiego najlepszego z okazji urodzin! (Today is a day to celebrate you and the amazing person you are. Happy birthday!)
If you need more wishes in Polish, read our full article on How to Say Happy Birthday in Polish.
Birthday Gift Etiquette in Poland
Do’s in Gifting
- Wrap gifts nicely.
- Give flowers in odd numbers as it is considered good luck (but not 13, which is considered bad luck in most European countries)
- Personal, thoughtful gifts are valued over expensive, showy ones.
Don’ts in Gifting
- Avoid giving gifts related to the number 13.
- When giving flowers, do not give yellow chrysanthemums, as they are associated with funerals.
Celebrating Name Days in Poland
- Or so-called “Imieniny,” are often considered more important than birthdays.
- Each day of the year is associated with a name, and when your name day comes up, it’s party time.
- The celebrant traditionally plays the role of host, buying drinks for friends and ensuring that guests are taken care of.
- It is common for employees celebrating name days to have a special cake (usually homemade) brought to work.
- In Poland, depending on the region, it is celebrated birthday or name day.
- The person celebrating name day gets flowers and possibly a gift.
Conclusion
Birthdays are filled with unique traditions and festivities. Add to the celebrations with an unforgettable gift experience or a thoughtful gift.
Understanding Polish birthday customs is essential for appreciating cultural diversity. These traditions provide a glimpse into Polish life, enriching our global community. Dive in and celebrate the Polish way!
Sophie is an etiquette coach who has the rare ability to make the intricacies of etiquette approachable and fun. She travels around the world coaching families, individuals, corporates and independent schools. Sophie has honed her craft without losing her easy-going charm.