Christmas traditions and Christmas Eve dishes
Students from all over the world (including Ukraine, Spain, Italy, Azerbaijan, Bangladesh, Lebanon, Zimbabwe, the Philippines, Egypt) sat down at Christmas Eve tables at the Training and Conference Centre of the University of Lodz. Employees of the International Relations Office of the University of Lodz introduced them to the concept of Polish holidays and the accompanying customs
As every year, the University of Lodz is pleased to show the famous Polish hospitality to its international students. The gala Christmas Eve dinner organised for them is one of such events that has been bringing guests from different parts of the world together at one table for many years. Over traditional Christmas Eve dishes, employees of the International Relations Office tell the students about Polish Christmas customs and memories related to them. We are always happy when we can share this atmosphere with at least some of our students
– said Liliana Lato, Head of the International Relations Office of the University of Lodz.
The event ended with a quiz for participants which tested their knowledge of Polish customs related to celebrating Christmas. During the meetings, interesting discussions took place about the prevailing traditions – although Christmas is also celebrated in other cultures, the dishes are completely different in many countries.
More than 2,600 international students of the University of Lodz from 95 countries
Mainly the first-year international students are invited to festive Christmas dinners. For many of them, coming from all over the world, it is the first opportunity to meet in such a large group with colleagues from other countries, as well as with the university representatives.
Prof. Artur Gałkowski, the Rector's Representative for ECTS Accumulation and Transfer, University of Lodz who was present at the Christmas Eve dinner, said:
Christmas Eve dinner with our international students is a real opportunity to introduce our international guests to one of the most important Polish traditions. Regardless of origin, language or religion, a Christmas gathering at the table allows everyone to feel like a family. Students will certainly remember and tell their relatives and friends about the customs, gifts, dishes and Christmas Eve atmosphere they have had an opportunity to learn about, get and taste. Some reported the meeting live via their mobile phones.
There are more than 2,600 students from 95 countries at the University of Lodz. Christmas gatherings have been very popular for years.
Photo report of Christmas dinners at the University of Lodz
Source: International Relations Office, University of Lodz
Edit: Iwona Ptaszek-Zielińska, photos: Bartosz Kałużny, Communications and PR Centre, University of Lodz
The mission of the University of Lodz is to conduct reliable research and actively disseminate facts and research results so as to wisely educate future generations, be useful to society and courageously respond to the challenges of the modern world. Scientific excellence is always our best compass. Our values include: courage, curiosity, commitment, cooperation and respect.