ZAGAN, Poland — Zagan’s School No. Transformed into a haunted haven of 5 Halloween festivities, Poland on October 30, 2024 is filled with spooky costumes, games and cultural exchanges. Welcomed five US Army soldiers stationed in Poland for fun.
Organized by the school’s English teachers and supported by US Army Garrison Poland, the event gave students a look at American Halloween traditions, combining learning with fun.
“We invited the American soldiers because they are away from home, and we wanted them to feel like they are back in America,” said Anna Chamko, an English teacher at Primary School No. 5.
The celebration included a Halloween-themed performance by costumed students, performing songs from American cult favorites such as Ghostbusters and The Addams Family. Soldiers took part in competitions where students wrapped them in toilet paper mummies and competed to see who could take the first bite of an apple hanging from a wire.
“We wanted to show our students an American and English tradition,” Chamko said. “It’s not that popular here in Poland.”
Soldiers also served as judges for the best-decorated pumpkin contest and participated in games combining American and local traditions. Festive treats and Halloween decorations set the stage, giving the event an authentic Halloween atmosphere.
Shamko said the event strengthens ties between the local community and the U.S. military, while allowing students to practice English in the real world with native speakers.
From School No. 5, USAG Poland and US Army Soldiers Stationed in Poland: Happy Halloween!