Christmas Eve, or Wigilia, is the holiest, and quite possibly the most joy-filled, day of the year in Poland. Early in the day the women of the family start slaving over the hot stove to cook a feast of 12 meatless dishes, while their menfolk and children decorate the Christmas tree and set the table. As dusk falls the candles on the tree are lit and everyone sits down to indulge in the great Christmas Eve meal. With bellies full of borshct, stuffed cabbage and pastries, the family then gathers around the tree to exchange gifts and sing carols. Read Less