November 1, All Saints’ Day is a national holiday in Poland and extensively celebrated as a day of remembrance. Whole families visit cemeteries to lay flowers and light candles at the graves of loved ones. Special services are held by the Roman Catholic church to commemorate the saints.
The tradition continues through to All Souls’ Day, on November 2.
In 2020 a decision was taken to close cemeteries to the public between 31 October and 2 November, because of the increasing number of COVID-19 infections in the country, to prevent crowding at cemeteries and increased risk of infection.
This year cemeteries are to remain open, however, as the fourth wave of infections gains momentum, Poland's health administration is appealing for people to exercise special caution when visiting graveyards, avoid crowds, wear masks, wash and disinfect hands frequently.
Source: PAP/IAR