WARSAW, Poland (AP) — On Saturday, Poland celebrated All Saints' Day, an important observance in the Catholic calendar, where families came together to honor the memories of their deceased loved ones. This annual event takes place on November 1 and holds significant cultural value for Poles, characterized by a deep sense of communal remembrance.

In preparation for the day, supermarkets across the country stacked shelves with candles, a staple of the commemoration, weeks in advance. As All Saints' Day approached, street vendors set up stalls near cemetery entrances, selling vibrant chrysanthemums and traditional Polish snacks such as “obwarzanki” (pretzels). This bustling atmosphere exemplified the festive yet solemn spirit of the occasion.

To accommodate the influx of visitors to cemeteries, special bus lines were introduced, with routes leading to the largest burial sites. Many city dwellers made their way to suburban areas or villages to visit the graves of their parents or grandparents, emphasizing the familial bonds central to this day. Law enforcement also joined in the efforts to maintain order on the roads, humorously referring to their initiative as “Operation Candle.”

As the sun set on November 1, cities across Poland seemed to pause as people flocked to cemeteries. Graves were transformed into radiant memorials adorned with white and red candles, alongside colorful flowers, creating a striking contrast against the backdrop of orange autumn leaves. This visual spectacle provided warmth and comfort, even amidst the somber mood of remembrance as families reflected on their loved ones who had passed away.

In locations such as Kroczewo near Warsaw, the solemnity of All Saints' Day was palpable, as individuals participated in collective mourning and reflection. The observance serves not just as a day to remember the dead, but also as an occasion that reinforces the importance of family and tradition within Polish culture.