przebierankom

Przebierankom is a regional Polish term used to describe a communal event centered on dressing up and masquerade. It denotes a gathering, often organized by local cultural associations, schools, or families, in which participants wear costumes, masks, and props and engage in performances, storytelling, or playful role-playing. The word comes from przebierać się, meaning to dress up, together with przebieranki, referring to the activity itself.

Origins and usage: The concept mirrors broader Central and Eastern European masquerade traditions, though przebierankom as a term is confined to certain dialects and communities. It typically takes place during carnival seasons, harvest festivals, or winter holidays, but exact timing varies by locality. Participation is inclusive of children and adults, with programs ranging from simple parades and skits to improvised theater and games.

Practices: Common components include a costume parade, a judging or prize for creativity, short performances, and communal meals or snacks. Crafting costumes is often a community activity, with workshops held in schools or cultural centers. Themes may draw on fairy tales, folklore, or contemporary pop culture, reflecting local tastes.

Cultural role: As a flexible label for local masquerade traditions, przebierankom serves to reinforce community ties, preserve folk memory, and provide a space for imaginative play. While not a nationwide institution, it remains part of Poland’s informal ethnographic landscape where dialect, tradition, and contemporary life intersect.

See also: Przebieranki; Carnival; Masquerade; Costume party.