Poland will observe December 24 as a state holiday for the first time, a move a finance ministry estimate says could cost the economy about 4 billion zlotys.
New Holiday for December 24
This year, for the first time, December 24th is a statutory day off from work. The change follows a law that passed the Sejm and Senate at the end of 2024.
Finance Minister Domański’s Opposition
Finance Minister Andrzej Domański was particularly opposed to the measure. His ministry estimates that a free Christmas Eve would mean 4 billion zlotys in economic losses, more than 2 billion zlotys less in budget revenues, and a 0.25‑point rise in unemployment.
Uncertain Cost Estimates
It is unclear how much we can trust these figures. Experience in Poland and abroad shows that finding a convincing answer to “how much does a statutory holiday cost?” is difficult. Empirical research is lacking, and attempts by government agencies and think tanks yield highly divergent results.
Broader Economic Debate
The question remains how much the country will lose on a free Christmas Eve and whether such a “fantasy” is affordable. Some argue that, in a climate where shortening the workweek is discussed, debating the costs of one extra day off may be trivial.
Gazeta.pl Explores the Claims
These issues are discussed in the third episode of Gazeta.pl’s new video show “Co mito da.” Readers are invited to watch the full analysis.
