Every year on December 20th, Poland celebrates Fish Day, a day dedicated to raising awareness about the treatment of fish, especially during the holiday season. Launched in 2003 by the Empatia Association, the day encourages people to recognize fish as sentient creatures that deserve care and consideration.
The timing is no accident—Fish Day takes place just before Christmas, a time when carp, a traditional dish in Polish holiday meals, is widely consumed. This makes it the perfect opportunity to rethink practices like the transport and sale of live fish in preparation for Christmas Eve dinners.
Fish Are More Than Food
Fish Day reminds us that fish aren’t just a menu item; they’re living beings with complex senses and the ability to experience the world. Studies reveal that fish have highly developed senses, including hearing, smell, taste, and touch.
For example, carp and catfish are known for their exceptional hearing, while sharks and rays rely on their incredible sense of smell to navigate and find food. Even the skin of fish is remarkably sensitive—comparable to how delicate the human eye is to light.
Why It Matters
In Poland, the Christmas tradition of buying and preparing live carp has been criticized for the suffering it can cause. Animal welfare groups like Empatia use Fish Day to draw attention to these issues, encouraging people to choose more humane options, such as pre-prepared fish.