In Poland on 2 May it is a unique date – we celebrate the Flag of the Republic of Poland. This is the day when the white-red flag becomes a symbol of unity, pride and respect for the national tradition.
Where did 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 May 2, 1945, Polish soldiers blocked the White-Red at the Victory Column in Berlin, which became an important historical moment. Since then, this day has reminded us of the importance of our national colours.
Why is the flag so important?
The white-red flag is not only material – it is a sign that unites Poles in Poland and abroad. It symbolizes pride, solidarity and memory of the past. On that day, the flags appear in windows, on balconies and streets, and Poles willingly wear national bows, called cotillions.
Where do Polish national colours come from?
The colors of the flags have deep, heraldic roots – they come from the coats of arms of the Kingdom of Poland (white eagle on a red background) and the Grand Duchy of Lithuania (white knight on a red background). Already in 1831 the Sejm of the Kingdom of Poland officially established white and red colours as national.
How do we celebrate Flag Day?
Although May 2 is not a day off from work, patriotic celebrations, parades and parades are held throughout Poland. In Warsaw a state flag is traditionally raised on the Royal Castle Clock Tower in the presence of a presidential couple and representatives of the authorities. It is also an opportunity to remember the principles of decent treatment of flags and other national symbols.
Popular forms of celebration:
- Flag hanging on the house or balcony
- Participation in local celebrations and family picnics
- Wearing white and red cotillions
- Singing an anthem or watching a parade
Flag and Polonia Festival
It is worth to add that on 2 May we also celebrate Polish and Polish Day behind the Border. This emphasizes the importance of ties with people living outside the country and how the flag connects Poles around the world.
Flag Day is not only an opportunity to manifest patriotism, but also to reflect on the meaning of national symbols. The white-red flag reminds us of a common history, values and what unites us – regardless of where we live.
