Polish Independence Day

Polish Independence Day (Dzień Niepodległości) was set to 11 November as a commemoration of regaining sovereignty after 123 years of non-existence. During those 123 years Poland was divided by three neighbours: Russia, Prussia (later Germany) and Habsburg Empire (later Austria). That day was chosen, when Józef Piłsudski assumed control of Poland. He was a Chieft of State (Naczelnik Państwa) between 1918 and 1922.

It was officially set up in 1937, not celebrated during Second World War (from 1939, when Poland was occupied by Germany and USSR) to 1989 and came back when Poland regained sovereignty, this time from USSR.

Dzień Niepodległości is a free from work day. Continue reading if you're interested in learning more about Polish anthem and celebrations.

Cemeteries in Warsaw

The beginning of November is a time to commemorate those who passed away. Many Polish visit graves of family members and friends.

Continue reading to learn trivia about cemeteries in Warsaw and customs related to the Day of the Dead.

The Death of Tadeusz Mazowiecki

Just last week, on 28th October, we got a sad news. On that day, Tadeusz Mazowiecki, the first non-communist Prime Minister in Poland after II World War has died.

Tadeusz Mazowiecki will be mainly remembered as a politician, as one of the leaders of the "Solidarity" (Solidarność) movement.

Much has been written and told about Tadeusz Mazowiecki. Many people has written about his life, also after he died. I'll give you just some examples:

• Tadeusz Mazowiecki, Polish prime minister, dies at 86 (Washington Post);
• Poland's 'father of democracy' Tadeusz Mazowiecki dies aged 86 (Euronews);
• Polish Jews mourn death of Tadeusz Mazowiecki, first post-Communist PM (Haaretz).

Accidentally, Tadeusz Mazowiecki's death occurred few days before the holidays where Polish people commemorate the people who passed away. First November is the All Saints Day, Second November is All Souls' Day. 

The funeral of Tadeusz Mazowiecki was held on 3rd November. This day was appointed by the current President of Poland as "national day of mourning". Polish and European officials took part in the funeral service in the Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist in Warsaw's Old Town.

Later he was laid to rest in his family's grave in Laski, near Warsaw.

Below there are two links related to Tadeusz Mazowiecki's funeral:

• State funeral for Poland's former PM Tadeusz Mazowiecki (video at BBC);
• Tadeusz Mazowiecki's funeral takes place in Warsaw (text with photos).

God rest his soul. 

October in Warsaw

October is a very "smart" month. In October lectures start at universities and we celebrate The Day of National Education (commonly known as a The Teacher's Day). October can also bring lots of joy to people... Why?

Continue reading to know more about October events and holidays in Warsaw.

Referendum for and against the President of Warsaw

Hanna Gronkiewicz-Waltz,
photo by: Piotr Drabik/Wikimedia Commons/CC

On 13th October we had an referendum for/against the current President of Warsaw. Opposition of the President of Warsaw (and the ruling party called Civic Platform) wanted to throw down Mrs. Hanna-Gronkiewicz-Waltz from her office.

That didn't happen in the end, as the referendum was invalid. Too little people went to vote. Tho from those who voted, around 95% wanted to end the President's post before the constitutional-end in 2014.

If you want to know more about the referendum, continue reading.

Mushroom hunting

Mushroom hunting (Polish: grzybobranie) is a popular hobby or weekend activity in Poland. Depending on the weather, it's possible to go mushroom hunting from August to October. I could talk (write) for hours about mushroom hunting. I remember that I started mushroom hunting with my family (parents and grandparents) as a child. We would drive the car to the forest (good places may be far away) and then start the several-hours-long mushroom hunting.

I like it and I always look out for possibility to go mushroom hunting. Either with friends or family. Why? For few reasons. First, it's a healthy outdoor activity. Second, it gives you a purpose (if you don't just like walking around for nothing). Three, you'll get a delicious (and natural!) food additives! And I swear you that in Poland we have lots of delicious dishes which use the mushrooms. Four, if you like rivalry, you can compare yourself with others. What is important is a good eye and luck.

Continue reading to get some photos from my mushroom hunting, learn some more about mushrooms and forests in Poland... or find online stores, if you can't go mushroom hunting. Long post before you!

September in Poland

September in Poland is a start of the new school year (up to high school) but also... make us remember the World War II, as it's the month Poland was attacked by Hitler.

If you want to learn more about historical events, celebrations, special days and annual events in Warsaw during September, continue reading.