American Frights and Polish Delights: US Soldiers and Żagań kids celebrate Halloween in Poland | Article

ZAGAN, Poland — Zagan’s School No. 5 transformed into a haunted haven of Halloween festivities, welcoming five U.S. Army Soldiers stationed in Poland for a morning of spooky fun filled with costumes, games, and cultural exchange on Oct. 30, 2024.

Organized by the school’s English teachers and supported by U.S. Army Garrison Poland, the event gave students a hands-on look into American Halloween traditions, blending fun with learning.

“We invited the American Soldiers because they are away from their homes, and we wanted them to feel like they were back in the United States,” said Anna Chimko, English teacher at Primary School No. 5.

The celebration included Halloween-themed performances by students dressed in costumes, featuring songs from American cult favorites like Ghostbusters and The Addams Family. The Soldiers joined in, participating in contests where students wrapped them into toilet paper mummies and competed to see who could take the first bite from apples dangling on strings.

“We wanted to show our students an American and English tradition,” said Chimko. “It’s not so popular here in Poland.”

The Soldiers also served as judges for the best-decorated pumpkin contest and joined in games that mixed American and local traditions. Festive treats and Halloween decorations set the stage, giving the event an authentic Halloween atmosphere.

Chimko said the event strengthen ties between the local community and the U.S. military, while allowing students to practice English in a real-world setting with native speakers.

From the students of School No. 5, USAG Poland and U.S. Army Soldiers stationed in Poland: Happy Halloween!