..During Advent, the Gwiadorze or star carriers, used to begin wandering through the towns and villages and this would continue until Epiphany. Some of the Gwiadorze sang carols, others recited verses or put on Szopi or puppet show, or herody or nativity scenes. The last two customs are developments from traditional manger scenes or Jaselka or crib. Star carriers are called carol singers. They sing carols. "put on Szopi" - you rather meant "perform Szopke". It is scene when Chist is born, and three kings come to the manger. "Herody" - you mean Herod's performance. The story, about evil king Herod, who was forseen to loose his power from a child, so he ordered to kill all the childs. Jaselka=Szopka. It is the same performance.

Christmas Eve, Wigilia, is an important part of the Polish Christmas, in fact, the most important rituals are celebrated on this day.

A traditional food found in Poland is Oplatek which is piece of bread pressed with a holy picture on the surface. Oplatek is only the begin. It is more symbolic than real food. We celebrate with at least 12 diffrent vegetarian dishes like: mushroom soup, carp, cabbage with pea, stuffed dumplings, shells macaroni with poppy "makielki". In some homes - some hay is put under the tablecloth (it is connected with Christ's manger).

Beautifully lit Christmas trees are placed in all public arenas, outside churches and in homes. Traditionally the trees are decorated with shiny apples, gift walnuts, beautifully wrapped chocolate shapes and many homemade decorations and candles...

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