The tradition of gift-giving at Christmas is deeply rooted in Polish culture, but depending on the region, different characters bring gifts. Children wait for Santa Claus, Gwiazdor (the Star), the Infant, and in some regions also for \“Gwiazda\” or \“Gwiazdka\” - each of these characters has its own history, symbolism and traditions.
Santa Claus: A Character with Tradition
Saint Nicholas, most popular in the Lesser Poland and Mazovia regions, derives from the figure of the bishop of Myra, or modern-day Turkey. The historical Nicholas of Myra, who lived in the 3rd and 4th centuries, was known for helping the needy, being generous and interceding for the poor. Legend has it that he secretly threw money into the homes of poor families, which was supposed to save them from poverty.
In iconography, he is depicted as an elderly man with a white beard and a pastoral in his hand, often dressed as a bishop. In Poland, Santa Claus mainly bestows gifts on children on December 6, his feast day, but in many families he also returns on Christmas Eve to leave gifts under the Christmas tree. His presence symbolizes a magical moment of anticipation and mutual concern, and in the south of the country it is traditional to meet him in person during a family Christmas Eve.
Starbucks: the Greater Gift Giver
In Greater Poland and the Kuyavia region, the role of the Christmas giver is played by Gwiazdor, a mysterious and somewhat austere figure who symbolizes strength, wisdom and morality. His appearance differs from the classic image of Santa Claus; the Starbearer often wears a sheepskin coat turned inside out, a hat with horns or a hat decorated with straw and bells.
In his hand he holds a stick, symbolizing power and strength. In addition to gifts, the starbearer may also bring rods for children who have not been polite, emphasizing the moral responsibility for good deeds. The tradition of the Starbearer derives from the ancient Slavic worship of the star as a guide in the sky and a symbol of Christmas. In modern times, his image has mellowed, and joy replaces the former severity. In some homes, the Starbearer also checks whether children know prayers or carols, a kind of test of morality and religious knowledge.
Baby: Donor from Silesia
In Silesia and parts of Malopolska, instead of Santa Claus or the Star, gifts are brought by the Infant, a symbol of the newborn Jesus. This tradition refers to the Christian message of Christmas, in which Jesus, born in a stable, is the most important gift for the faithful. It is also an expression of the deep piety of the people of these regions, who cherish the image of the Child as a helpless, innocent being. The Child is not a figure to be seen. The gifts appear \“on their own,\” which adds to the whole ritual's festive charm. In Silesian homes, gifts are found under the Christmas tree after returning from the shepherdess' service or already on the Christmas Eve table after supper. Children anticipate the gifts, believing that Jesus himself brings them, which emphasizes the religious dimension of the celebration.
Star: Donor in the South of Poland
In some regions of Poland, especially in the south, gifts are brought by \“Gwiazdka\” or \“Star\”. This custom refers to the Christian symbolism of the Star of Bethlehem, which led the Wise Men to the birthplace of Jesus. In these regions, Christmas is full of warmth and magic - gifts often appear after Christmas Eve dinner, under the tree, and children believe that it is the Star that brings them gifts as a symbol of the love and light that descended to earth with the birth of Jesus.
Each of these characters refers to a different aspect of Christmas: Santa Claus is a symbol of love for one's fellow man, the Starbearer reminds us of reflection and responsibility, the Child reflects simplicity and deep religious joy, and the Star represents the light of hope. Over time, these traditions have been enriched with individual elements, but they all share a common goal - to bring children and adults into the atmosphere of Christmas, mutual love and generosity.
Nowadays, gift-giving in Poland combines both religious and secular dimensions - gifts symbolize closeness, bonding and love, and bring joy. Regardless of who brings the gifts, they are an expression of care and a desire to bring joy to loved ones.
