National Independence Day in Poland

In November, we have two important holidays: we celebrated All Saint’s day on the 1st of November, and this Saturday we have another celebration, National Independence Day. Since it is a public holiday, please, keep in mind that on this day all shops are closed. Why is this day so important? An answer to this question you can find below.

Each country has its own unique history. In Poland the end of the 18th century was a turbulent time. In 1772, Austria, Prussia, and Russia began dividing Polish lands between themselves. After two more partitions in years 1793 and 1795 Poland disappeared from the maps of Europe for 123 years.

In 1918, Poland regained its independence. In order to commemorate the anniversary of winning back the country’s sovereignty, on November, 11, Polish citizens organise military parades, concerts, and marathons. On this day, official and private buildings as well as the streets are decorated with Polish flags, shops and businesses are closed. For a lot of people this day is one of the most important celebrations during the year. After years of fight, Poland reappeared on the maps of Europe, Polish language and culture were no longer banned, and people regained their freedom.