For many years, Poland has been famous throughout the world for its folk dances. Polish folk dances are special in that they combine beautiful choreography, ballet art, contagious music and beautiful costumes. There are many of their varieties that represent Poland. Krakowiak is a dance known throughout the world and is a kind of visiting card of the country. But this is not the only representative. Polonaise is a dance, no less famous and fiery. We will tell you a little about each of them, so that you can plunge into the atmosphere of this country.
Polish folk dances
Poland is a country that remembers and honors its traditions, follows customs, and is proud of its heritage. One such legacy is dancing. Speaking about such a topic as Polish folk dances, one can talk for hours about the beauty of each of them, describe the originality, the history of its occurrence and the peculiarity of the performance. It is impossible to convey in words of all beauty, but we will try to tell the most basic. So, the most famous dances of Poland are:
- krakowyak;
- polonaise;
- kuyavyak;
- mazurka.
They are considered a common heritage. But there are dances that are specific to certain areas. For instance:
- triple;
- Zbrujnice dances;
- Hural dancing.
Each of them has a stage image. Variants of dances look most vividly when they are performed by the peasant composition, and not by the manner of intelligentsia. Salon manner only spoils these lively, fiery movements. It should be noted that the dances arose precisely in the peasant, rural environment, and only later they began to be performed by artisans and citizens. All of them are associated with any celebrations, holidays. That is why many couples and people participate in them. Mass is a hallmark of Polish dance.
Krakowyak
Krakowiak is a dance that is distinguished by speed and temperament. He was born in Krakow, hence the name. And they perform it not only in this city, but also in all cities of Poland, as well as in other countries where there are Polish diasporas. The dance is accompanied by chants. The meaning of the songs is that they praise the Polish guys. Krakowak is dancing in pairs. Moreover, their number should be even. The leading role belongs to the guy who can diversify the course of the dance, using imagination and fiction. A variety of movements in a fast rhythm look great thanks to the clear drawing of the figures and the fit of the dancers. Accompanied by fun orchestral music.
Polonaise
Polonaise is a dance that is solemn. It is massive among the Poles, many couples take part in it. Polonaise was especially popular with the aristocracy of Poland due to its proud character. The dance is based on walking movements. The steps have a sliding character and restrained manner of execution. In the old days, girls during the performance of polonaise held candles or hops in their hands. You could wear a wreath of wildflowers.
Kuyaviac
Kuyavyak dance first appeared in Kuyavia. It has a smoother and slower pace, which is more like a waltz. Although movements can vary and alternate between slow and fast pace. It is accompanied by songs that complement its stage character. In the songs, the boys call the girls to dance, and they rejoice and praise the parents for teaching the children this art. An even number of couples participate in the dance, guys often pick up and carry girls from place to place. Very beautiful and rhythmic dance.
Mazurka
Mazurka is a dance that appeared in Mazovsha. It is also performed in pairs to songs or orchestral music. Unlike Krakowiak, the leading role is given to the girl who dances in the first pair. It is this pair that draws shapes that can be different. In the process of dancing, the girl throws up a handkerchief, and the guy who catches him can dance with her. The meaning of the mazurka is the praise of the beauty and hard work of a girl who is popular among guys.
Traditions of Poland
Polish folk dances are not the only thing the people of this wonderful country are proud of. There are many other ancient traditions that are still honored by the Poles. In the country, traditions have a religious character. Holidays such as Easter and Christmas are very popular here.
Holy Week is generally distinguished by mass celebrations and theatrical performances. There are also many interesting traditions that clearly reflect the Polish flavor:
- Emaus - a mass celebration that was held in memory of the apostles who went to the village of Emaus. On the streets are traders who offer toys, jewelry, confectionery, etc.
- All Saints Day is celebrated on November 1, and on November 2, everyone remembers the souls of the departed. Snuffles is a day of remembrance. All relatives come together and commemorate those who have already passed away.
- Christmas is especially celebrated. There are many options for decorating houses that create a special, festive atmosphere. On Christmas Eve, Christmas Eve, the Poles observe all signs and traditions in order to bring prosperity and prosperity to their home next year.
- Drowning of Mozhana. This tradition takes its roots from ancient times. But still the Poles continue to honor her. Mojana is a doll that represents winter, and drowning it means farewell to this time of year. All this is arranged on the first day of spring from the point of view of astronomy - March 21. Especially this tradition is loved by children, as the whole process is accompanied by fun and noise. The doll is dressed in a dress, a necklace and worn in the village, going into each house. Then all the clothes are removed and thrown into the field, and the doll is thrown into a river or lake, you can simply into a puddle.
In addition, the following holidays are celebrated in Poland:
- Women's day is March 8th.
- Mom's Day - May 26th.
- Grandmother's Day - January 21.
- Children's Day - June 1.
- Independence Day - November 11th.
- Constitution Day - May 3.
Poles take all traditions and customs very seriously, because they love their country. And in general, this nation has a positive attitude and good natured character. Everyone who visited Poland made a lot of emotions and impressions from there, especially if they got there during a holiday.