KrakowInformer.com

 Women's Day

Poland celebrates the International Women's Day on March 8^th, like other countries. However, it seems that the Polish celebrations of the Women's Day (Polish Dzień Kobiet, pronounced 'jen kobhet') are somewhat special, and somewhat linked to the country's communist past – and although there's only a slight chance that a Krakow girl will call you a 'commie' when you hand her a flower on Women's Day, this indeed might happen.

Women's Day and Communism

During the times of communism Women's Day was celebrated in factories and other work places in almost the same way every year: the female workers were gathered in one place and given a pair of pantyhose paired with a flower, usually a red carnation – always handed 'upside down'. Since pantyhose were in short supply, this might have seemed a really good gift.

Now: Feminist Demonstrations on Women's Day

Today, as in many other countries, each year on Women's Day feminists organize anti-intolerance demonstrations, rallying to make the rights of men and women equal. The Manifas, as they are called, are organized in Poland's biggest cities (and Krakow is no exception).

How to celebrate Women's Day in Krakow?

The simplest ways are always the best – a flower from the Krakow Main Market Square, then a visit in one of the Krakow Cafes or Cinemas should be enough to make this day a special one. Or maybe try and show your artistic side and take her to one of the Krakow Theaters or even the Opera House?