Poland – Palm Sunday, known locally as Niedziela Palmowa, is one of the most vibrant and meaningful celebrations of Holy Week in Poland. The tradition marks Jesus Christ’s triumphant entry into Jerusalem, where He was welcomed by crowds waving palm branches.
According to Bombo Neva Kessler, an international correspondent based in Poland, the occasion is celebrated with unique customs that reflect both religious devotion and cultural creativity.
Instead of real palm leaves—which are not native to Poland—locals craft elaborate and colorful “palms” using dried plants, flowers, willow branches, and decorative ribbons. These handmade creations serve as symbolic offerings and are proudly displayed by families and communities during Palm Sunday processions.
In some regions of Poland, friendly competitions are held to see who can create the tallest palm, with entries reaching up to 10 meters (over 30 feet) in height. These competitions are a major attraction and a point of pride for local artisans.
The crafted palms are brought to church to be blessed by priests during mass. After the ceremony, they are taken home and placed in households as a form of protection against misfortune and to invite blessings for the coming year.
Palm Sunday in Poland is not only a solemn religious event but also a colorful expression of faith, community, and tradition.
