In Poland, Grandma Day is celebrated annually on January 21. The day is widely celebrated across Poland, and children and adults gift their grandmothers cards, flowers, and small gifts — often these gifts are homemade. Schools and kindergartens may host small events and celebrations on this day. Grandparents are an integral part of the family dynamic in Poland and spend many hours with their grandchildren. According to research Polish grandparents spend on average more time, than any of their European counterparts, with their grandchildren. Their average is around nine hours per week. Grandparents will also help with childcare, and instead of hiring a childcare helper such as a nanny, grandparents will adopt the role of caregiver for their families.
History of Grandma Day
Unlike many holidays in other countries, Grandma’s and Grandpa’s day are two different holidays that fall back to back in January. Grandma’s day is celebrated on January 21 and Grandpa’s Day is celebrated on January 22. The separation of the days is a testament to the country’s fondness for the older generation, many other countries such as the United States, Spain, Britain, South Africa, and others have just one day dedicated to celebrating both grandparents.
Grandma’s Day was created by “Kobieta I Życie” magazine, in 1964. It began to grow in popularity the following year when the “Express Poznański” newspaper began to popularize the new holiday. Then, the “Express Wieczorny” newspaper joined in the festivities and Grandma’s Day grew to become a popular holiday among the Polish.
Polish grandmas and grandpas are referred to as ‘babcia’ and ‘dziadek’ and are known for treating their grandchildren to sweets and delicious meals. It is noted that this may be a result of growing up during the war or in the rigid communist eras.
There are no particular customs or traditions associated with this day except to spend the day with your grandmother of course. Polish grandparents, on average, have three grandchildren — lots of opportunities for hugs, gifts, and cards! Of course, adult grandchildren celebrate this day as well and shower the matriarchs of the family with gifts, flowers, and cards.
Grandma Day timeline
The idea to celebrate Grandma's Day is started by “Kobieta I Życie” (“Woman and Life”) magazine.
The “Express Poznański” begins to promote the holiday.
The “Express Wieczorny” (“Evening Express”) decides to celebrate the day as well and Grandma's Day's popularity grows.
The Polish Museum of America celebrates the 55th anniversary of Grandma's Day.
Grandma Day FAQs
What is a Polish grandma called?
A grandmother is called ‘babcia.’
Which countries celebrate Grandparent’s Day?
Several countries celebrate Grandparent’s Day, including Australia, America, Canada, Estonia, Italy, and Pakistan among others.
Why do we celebrate Grandparent’s Day?
We celebrate Grandparent’s Day to honor grandparents.
Grandma Day Activities
Visit your grandma
Pay a visit to your grandma, this is the best gift you can give to her. The happiness on her face is worth all the effort.
Make her a card or gift
Give your grandmother a homemade card or gift. This is your day for being creative.
Organize a community event for all the grandmothers
Host a community event for Grandma's Day. It’s the perfect way for grandchildren and their grandmas to celebrate with others.
5 Facts About Grandparents
Grandparents are internet savvy
The percentage of grandparents who are online is rising and currently sits at 75%.
Grandmothers outnumber grandfathers
Generally, women live longer than men so there are more grandmothers than grandfathers, but evidence suggests that this seems to be leveling out.
Generous spenders
Modern grandparents spend generously on their grandchildren compared to previous generations.
Grandparents are younger than before
The average age of grandparents has lowered over the years, with the average age of grandparents in the United States being 48.
More than half are still working
About 60% of grandparents are still a part of the workforce with full-time or part-time jobs.
Why We Love Grandma Day
It celebrates grandmothers
This day celebrates and appreciates all the hard work grandmothers do. This way we can make our grandmothers feel appreciated and valued.
It brings families together
It brings our families together to celebrate. A nice way to get together with family and cherish the time with grandmother.
We get to spoil our grandmothers as they spoil us
Today, we can shower them with gifts and food like they usually do for us. You may give a surprise gift to your grandmother.
Grandma Day dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | January 21 | Tuesday |
| 2026 | January 21 | Wednesday |
| 2027 | January 21 | Thursday |
| 2028 | January 21 | Friday |
| 2029 | January 21 | Sunday |
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