Badnji dan, Christmas Eve
On 6 January Serbs celebrate Badnji dan. Oak branches, the badnjak, are blessed and burnt in front of churches in the evening, and families gather for a meatless dinner. The atmosphere in front of St Sava Temple and the Cathedral Church is something special.
Christmas Day
On the morning of 7 January the liturgy is served in every church, and people greet each other with "Hristos se rodi", Christ is born. At home, the family breaks the česnica, a round bread with a coin hidden inside. Whoever finds it will be lucky all year.
Serbian New Year
Because of the calendar difference, the night of 13 to 14 January is celebrated as the Serbian New Year, often with concerts and fireworks in the city.
Winter trips
Winter is a quiet and beautiful time to visit the monasteries of Fruška Gora and the wine cellars of Sremski Karlovci. For pilgrims, we also plan winter pilgrimage routes around the feast days.
Frequently asked questions
Why is Christmas on 7 January in Serbia?
The Serbian Orthodox Church uses the Julian calendar, which is currently 13 days behind the Gregorian calendar.
Are shops and museums open?
7 January is a public holiday, so many businesses are closed. Most restaurants in the centre stay open.