In Poland, 2 May is a special date, marking Flag Day of the Republic of Poland. It is a day when the white and red flag becomes a symbol of unity, pride and respect for national tradition.
Where Does Flag Day Come From?
Flag Day was established in 2004 to promote knowledge of national symbols and Polish identity. The date is not accidental: on 2 May 1945, Polish soldiers raised the white and red flag on the Column of Victory in Berlin, which became an important historical moment. Since then, this day has served as a reminder of how important our national colours are.
Why Is the Flag So Important?
The white and red flag is not just a piece of cloth – it is a sign that unites Poles at home and abroad. It symbolises pride, solidarity and remembrance of the past. On this day, flags appear in windows, on balconies and on streets, and Poles willingly wear national rosettes called kotyliony.
Where Do the Polish National Colours Come From?
The colours have deep heraldic roots – they derive from the coats of arms of the Kingdom of Poland (a white eagle on a red background) and the Grand Duchy of Lithuania (a white knight on a red background). As early as 1831, the Sejm of the Kingdom of Poland officially established the white and red colours as national colours.
How Do We Celebrate Flag Day?
Although 2 May is not a public holiday, patriotic ceremonies, parade drill displays and parades take place across Poland. In Warsaw, the national flag is traditionally raised on the Clock Tower of the Royal Castle in the presence of the presidential couple and government representatives. It is also an opportunity to recall the rules for dignified treatment of the flag and other national symbols.
Popular Ways of Celebrating:
- Displaying the flag on a home or balcony
- Taking part in local ceremonies and family picnics
- Wearing white and red kotyliony
- Singing the national anthem together or watching parades
Flag Day and the Polonia
It is also worth adding that 2 May marks the Day of Polonia and Poles Abroad. This highlights how important ties with compatriots living outside the country are, and how the flag unites Poles around the world.
Flag Day is not only an occasion to demonstrate patriotism, but also to reflect on the meaning of national symbols. The white and red flag reminds us of our shared history, values and what connects us – regardless of where we live.
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