Name Days (Imieniny) in Poland

What is a name day?

In Poland, almost every first name is assigned to a date in the calendar (imieniny). The tradition comes from the Catholic saints' calendar. Many Poles celebrate their name day similarly to, or even more than, their birthday.

How it works

• Each day of the year lists one or more names.
• If your name appears on a day, that is your name day.
• Calendars, including those printed in offices, show the names for each day.

Celebrating

• Family and friends call or visit; small gifts and flowers are common.
• At work, the person celebrating often brings cake, or colleagues treat them to coffee.
• Wishing someone "wszystkiego najlepszego z okazji imienin" (all the best on your name day) is appreciated.

Why it matters

Knowing a colleague's name day and wishing them well is a quick way to build rapport. It costs nothing and is remembered.