Is 2 November a public holiday?

No, only 1 November (Wszystkich Świętych) is non-working. 2 November (Zaduszki) is a working day, though many take leave.

Znicze are the grave candles (glass cups with a candle inside) lit by the thousands on graves after dark on 1 November — a striking, sight.

All Saints' and All Souls' Days (1–2 November)

Wszystkich Świętych and Zaduszki — Poland's cemetery tradition, candles, traffic, and practical notes.

Updated 2026-01-20 · 1 min read

All Saints' and All Souls' Days (1–2 November)

1 November — Wszystkich Świętych

A non-working day. Families visit cemeteries, clean graves, and light znicze (grave candles). After dark, cemeteries glow with thousands of candles — a powerful national tradition.

2 November — Zaduszki (All Souls' Day)

A working day, but observed as All Souls' Day. Many take leave to visit graves; the tradition continues.

Practical notes

Traffic to cemeteries is heavy on 1 November afternoon; allow time.
Public transport adds extra trams/buses to cemetery routes.
Florists sell chrysanthemums (the seasonal flower) — buy early.
Graves of relatives abroad can be "adopted" by volunteers; many Poles tend forgotten graves.

What's open

Shops closed on 1 November (trade ban).
Cemeteries open extended hours.
Restaurants near cemeteries busy.

Tips

Dress warmly — early November evenings are cold.
Buy candles before the day; prices rise near cemeteries.

FAQ

Is 2 November a public holiday?: No, only 1 November (Wszystkich Świętych) is non-working. 2 November (Zaduszki) is a working day, though many take leave.
What are znicze?: Znicze are the grave candles (glass cups with a candle inside) lit by the thousands on graves after dark on 1 November — a striking, sight.