Easter is a time of joy, family gatherings, and spring celebration. For many older people, it is also a moment that brings back memories of childhood and youth. Easter traditions in Poland are deeply rooted, and the foods and customs associated with them play an important role in the lives of seniors. In this article, we present Easter traditions in Poland and the dishes that are an inseparable part of the holiday table, especially in the context of older adults.
Easter begins with Palm Sunday, which in Poland is celebrated with great joy. On this day, palm branches are blessed in churches as a symbol of triumph and hope. This tradition holds special meaning for older people who remember making their own palms in their youth, often decorated with dried flowers and willow branches.
For seniors, Lent—the period before Easter—was traditionally a time of reflection, prayer, and fasting. Although this practice may be less strictly observed today, it still carries deep spiritual and moral meaning for many older people. During this time, the consumption of certain foods was limited in preparation for the joyful celebration of the Resurrection.
In Poland, Easter is above all a family holiday full of traditional customs. After attending Easter Mass—the most important event of the holiday—families gather around the table to share meals. For older people, these gatherings have deep emotional value, providing an opportunity to bond with children and grandchildren, share memories, and pass on family traditions.
One of the most important Easter dishes in Poland is żurek, which has a special significance for seniors. Made from rye flour sourdough with sausage and eggs, żurek symbolizes new life and rebirth. Its aroma brings back memories of family warmth and tradition. Preparing żurek offers seniors a chance to spend time with loved ones and pass down secret family recipes.
White sausage is another delicacy that has long been a fixture on Easter tables. Its consumption is associated with the joy of the Resurrection and the arrival of spring. Many seniors remember preparing it at home—baking it in the oven or boiling it in broth. Served with horseradish or beetroot relish, white sausage is a classic that brings back the flavors of the past.
Eggs in Poland are not only food but also a symbol of new life, resurrection, and renewal. They are a must-have at Easter breakfast, and for older people, they represent both delicious food and the tradition of blessing food in church. Eggs often appear as stuffed eggs, eggs with mayonnaise, or in salads.
Mazurek is a traditional Polish cake that has been baked for generations in many homes. It is a sweet pastry decorated with nuts, dried fruits, and icing. For seniors, mazurek evokes childhood memories of baking with parents or grandparents. Its presence on the Easter table symbolizes home warmth and traditions passed down from generation to generation.
Śmigus-Dyngus, also known as Wet Monday, is a tradition many seniors consider an essential part of Easter. In the past, especially in smaller towns, this day was filled with laughter, games, and joy. Splashing each other with water, singing, and dancing remain cherished memories. Though not as common today, this tradition continues to hold sentimental value for many older people.
Easter eggs are symbolic and are often painted or decorated in various ways. For seniors, especially those skilled in crafts, decorating eggs is a tradition that allows them to express creativity and spend time with family. Today, these eggs often become heirlooms, passed down from generation to generation, carrying not only beauty but also family history.
For seniors in Poland, Easter is not only a religious holiday but also a time filled with memories and emotions. Traditions such as preparing Easter dishes, decorating eggs, or celebrating Śmigus-Dyngus hold great importance in their lives. These customs and meals are more than just cultural elements—they are a way to share values and preserve memories of the past.
April 16, 2025
