In Poland, the most magical moment of Christmas is not the 25th but Christmas Eve, known as Wigilia. Families gather on 24 December when the first star appears in the sky, share a wafer, wish each other well and sit down to a meat-free dinner of traditional dishes. Spending Christmas Eve at Grand Ascot Hotel in Krakow lets you experience this beautiful tradition in elegant surroundings, with the scent of gingerbread and mushroom dumplings in the air – and none of the stress of preparing it yourself. Here is what to expect.
What is Wigilia?
Wigilia is the heart of Polish Christmas. The table is set with a white tablecloth, often with a little hay underneath and an extra place for an unexpected guest. Dinner begins when the first star appears, and traditionally there are twelve meat-free dishes, from beetroot soup with tiny dumplings to carp and poppy-seed cake. Read more about them in 12 traditional Christmas Eve dishes.
What does Christmas Eve at the hotel include?
At Grand Ascot, Christmas Eve is more than a dinner – it is a carefully prepared festive package that combines Polish tradition with elegance. Guests enjoy a festive meal in beautifully decorated interiors, with seasonal music and Christmas activities for families, couples and friends. It is the perfect choice if you want to celebrate in peace, without the rush of preparations.
The Christmas Eve dinner
Our Christmas Eve dinner combines a generous buffet with dishes served by our chefs. We take Polish tradition seriously: expect the aroma of wild mushroom soup, łazanki noodles with cabbage, pierogi, roast carp and, for dessert, poppy-seed cake full of dried fruit and nuts with a traditional dried-fruit compote. Our chefs prepare every dish with great respect for tradition, adding a refined modern touch. Looking for other dining ideas during your stay? See where to eat traditional Polish food in Krakow.
Santa and activities for children
Families with children are very welcome. A visit from Santa and activities for younger guests help children feel the magic of Christmas, while parents can enjoy a moment for themselves. Our Family Suite has room for up to four guests, and a cot is available free of charge.
A Christmas stay with accommodation
Staying with us over Christmas lets you enjoy the festive atmosphere to the full: an elegant room, a delicious Christmas Eve dinner, a festive breakfast and time to explore the city. The Christmas market in the Main Market Square and the city’s nativity scenes are just a 6-minute walk away – see our guide to Christmas in Krakow.
Festive decorations
At Christmas, the hotel glows with warm gold, soothing green and touches of red. Fragrant Christmas trees, natural arrangements and candlelit decorations create an elegant yet homely atmosphere that blends beautifully with the historic heart of Krakow.
Midnight Mass
The hotel does not hold religious services, but our reception team will gladly tell you about the nearest churches and the times of Midnight Mass (Pasterka) and other Christmas services. Krakow’s Old Town has many beautiful churches, so you can easily add this moving tradition to your Christmas.
Time to relax
Christmas is also a time to rest. Before dinner, unwind in our sauna, open 24 hours a day, or take a winter walk along the Planty. Our discreet, attentive staff will make sure you have everything you need, so you can simply enjoy the moment.
How to book
Does Christmas Eve in a hotel replace a traditional Christmas at home? It doesn’t replace the tradition – it lets you celebrate it in a more relaxed and beautiful way. To book your Christmas stay or Christmas Eve dinner, contact us or email rezerwacja@grandascot.pl. We look forward to welcoming you to Grand Ascot Hotel!
Stay in the heart of Krakow
Grand Ascot Hotel is 600 m from the Main Market Square, about a 6-minute walk. What you will find on site:
- underground car park in the building (advance booking required)
- sauna and gym
- Four Restaurant and Wine & Spirits Bar
- buffet breakfast
- pets welcome
- 3 conference rooms, the largest for up to 100 people
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