Twenty-Six Of The Best Polish Christmas Gifts

When I married into a first generation Polish family, I became aware of the need to find gifts with cultural significance.

I was never asked to do this, but it occured to me that it might be nice, special… to receive a gift – a trinket, a taste of, or a piece of decor that reminds you of home.

I lived in Japan for three years as a military spouse, and it was during that time that I acutely felt my American-ess and more importantly, my identity as a southerner. Honestly, prior to leaving the country I’d never given it a thought. And now look at me! I have a whole online magazine dedicated to southern living.

But when I was in Okinawa, Japan, I suddenly wanted molasses and biscuits. I wanted grits. I was calling my mother for her fried chicken recipe (her spice blend) – this was when I ate meat. I’m a pescatarian now. But I specifically wanted southern food as a reminder of home. I wanted shirts that said things like “Hey Ya’ll!” and “I’m a southern girl.” Maybe everyone doesn’t feel this way, but I did.

So last year when I thought about gifts for my hubs, (it’s really hard to shop for him (!) ) and I’d bought all the gift cards, all the stuff from Home Depot and Lowes, I searched for bakeries that would ship Polish Christmas treats. I know he loves to eat, and he loves his mama’s cooking, so how could I go wrong?

This search took me to Etsy.com (one of my favorite places for one-of-a-kind gifts), and I discovered to my surprise, they had a nice variety of Polish food, decorations and other products for purchase. Last year, I purchased the kołaczki and the pierogi on this list. They were a big hit and a successful taste of home.

So this year, I wanted to include a gift guide of Polish-themed gifts for any of our readers who have a Pole or Polish-American in their life who would appreciate a taste or piece of home.

Click on the image to view the full product listing on Etsy. If you’re new to Etsy, keep in mind that these are handmade and or customized gifts with limited supplies and sometimes long shipping times, i.e. 2-3 weeks. Some of the items are coming from Poland so if you see something you like – buy it then or it may not be around. Or worse, it will come after Christmas.

Whimsical Polish-Inspired Christmas Tree Decorations

Are these not the cutest? I love things that look like food. Candles. Toys. Miniatures Whatever. So I was over the moon when I discovered these adorable Christmas ornaments that look like pączk and kołaczki. I love them all but those are my faves.

Cute & Christmas-y Polish Pottery

I fell in love with Polish pottery on my first trip to Poland. I could spend hours in the Polish pottery stores. I’d never seen it before, but was really interested in learning the history of the industry and just marveling at the various patterns and designs. I found a set of cups and saucers that were a delicate lavender and pink that were perfection.

Fun Polish-Themed Gifts

OMG, look at those crocheted pierogi! I can’t. They’re just so cute. I know, what do you do with them? Just put them in a corner and look at them. That’s how adorable they are. And if you’re a fan of quirky socks, can you really say no to pierogi socks?

Perfect Gifts For The Polish Cook

I love the cutting board the most. It’s the wood and the words. And it’s something I’d use every day. These three products aren’t just a taste of home, they’re super practical. That’s Polish, right?

Yummy Gifts For The Polish Foodie

I”m not sure I need to say one word here. I’ve tried everything on this row. And they are all delicious. Order these early. Don’t be surprised if they don’t last long n your home. Maybe order double? 🙂

Novels & Fiction With Polish Themes

Any book lovers out there? I’m a reader and a writer, so not only do I want people to give me books as gifts. They are go-to gifts for me when I’m not sure what to give someone. Or if I think a book will be the perfect gift for someone.

This is a great selection of books including a cookbook, an interesting real life tale of a Cold War spy, The Widow Queen, fiction based on a real figure in Polish history, my Enchanted Bay Mystery series based on the Mermaid of Warsaw mystery beginning with A Spell For Trouble, then continuing with A Hex For Danger and several more.

I think there’s something for every taste. Please note this is an adult book list except for Don’t Call The Wold which is a YA fantasy based on a Polish fairytale.

I hope you find this gift giving guide helpful. I had a lot of fun putting it together. If you have success with any of the gifts, let me know in comments. Merry Christmas, ya’ll!