Wigilia means “to watch” or “keep vigil” in Polish. It takes place on Christmas Eve and commemorates the vigil that the shepherds kept on the night of Christ’s birth, but it’s very possible that the celebration goes back to pre-Christian times. Because some people still cling to the ancient belief that wandering spirits roam the land during the darkest days of the year, it is not uncommon for Poles to make an extra effort to be hospitable at Christmas time, leaving out a pan of warm water and a bowl of nuts and fruits for any unexpected visitors. Discuss