Polish Heritage Days

Polish Heritage Days are a time-honoured tradition that serves to honour and celebrate the historical, cultural and societal contributions of the Polish community to the United Kingdom. Taking place annually in May, these festivities span the length and breadth of the UK, fostering a sense of unity and providing a vibrant exploration of Polish heritage.

Origins of Polish Heritage Days in the UK

In the United Kingdom, Polish Heritage Days were launched in 2017 by the Polish Embassy in London. The decision to celebrate in May coincides with important dates in Poland’s history, including the 3rd of May Constitution Day – a Polish national and public holiday. The event also acknowledges the 2nd of May, recognized as Polish Flag Day and the Day of Polonia and Poles Abroad.

Celebrations of Polish Culture and History

The Polish Heritage Days offer a vast array of events across the UK, designed to promote Polish culture, traditions, and history. These range from music and dance performances showcasing traditional and contemporary Polish styles, to art exhibitions, film screenings, and academic lectures that delve into the history of Poland and the experiences of the Polish diaspora.

One of the key elements of the celebration is the sharing of Polish literature, both classic works and contemporary ones, in libraries and bookshops around the UK. These literary events, often featuring talks from authors or literary critics, serve to highlight Poland’s rich literary tradition.

A Taste of Poland

Polish Heritage Days in the UK would not be complete without the opportunity to savour traditional Polish cuisine. Food festivals and Polish cooking classes are often part of the festivities. These gastronomic events offer a taste of classic Polish dishes such as pierogi (dumplings), bigos (hunter’s stew), and paczki (doughnuts), and highlight the country’s culinary heritage.