Serbia’s public holidays in 2025 offer a glimpse into the nation’s rich cultural tapestry and historical significance. These holidays, deeply rooted in Orthodox Christian traditions and national history, provide Serbians with opportunities for celebration, reflection, and rest throughout the year. From the joyous festivities of New Year’s Day to the solemn remembrance of Armistice Day, each holiday carries its unique traditions and meanings. This article explores the significance of Public Holidays in Serbia in 2025, highlighting the customs and practices that make them unique. Whether you’re planning a visit or simply curious about Serbian culture, understanding these holidays offers valuable insights into the country’s heritage and values.
Public Holidays in Serbia in 2025
The following is the list of Public Holidays in Serbia in 2025
| Holiday | Date | Weekday |
| New Year’s Day | Jan 01, 2025 | Wednesday |
| New Year Holiday | Jan 02, 2025 | Thursday |
| Orthodox Christmas Day | Jan 07, 2025 | Tuesday |
| Statehood Day | Feb 15, 2025 | Saturday |
| Statehood Day Holiday | Feb 16, 2025 | Sunday |
| Statehood Day Holiday | Feb 17, 2025 | Monday |
| Orthodox Good Friday | Apr 18, 2025 | Friday |
| Orthodox Easter Monday | Apr 21, 2025 | Monday |
| Labour Day | May 01, 2025 | Thursday |
| Labour Day Holiday | May 02, 2025 | Friday |
| Armistice Day | Nov 11, 2025 | Tuesday |
| Know More: Public Holidays in Senegal in 2025 |
New Year’s Day
New Year’s Day, celebrated on January 1st, marks the beginning of the new year in Serbia. It’s a time for fresh starts and new beginnings. Serbians typically celebrate with family and friends, enjoying special meals and exchanging gifts. Many people stay up late on New Year’s Eve to watch fireworks and count down to midnight. Traditional foods like sarma (stuffed cabbage rolls) and česnica (a round bread with a coin inside) are often served. Some families follow the custom of having the youngest child open the door at midnight to let the new year in. The decoration of cities and villages with lights and ornaments establishes a festive atmosphere. It’s a joyous occasion filled with hope and excitement for the year ahead.
Orthodox Christmas Day
Orthodox Christmas Day, celebrated on January 7th in Serbia, is a significant religious holiday. It follows the Julian calendar used by the Serbian Orthodox Church. The celebration commences on Christmas Eve with the burning of an oak branch known as a badnjak, which represents the fire that kept infant Jesus warm. Families gather for a festive dinner, which is typically meatless and dairy-free due to the preceding fast. On Christmas morning, people greet each other with “Christ is born!” and the response “Truly He is born!” A special Christmas bread called česnica is baked with a coin inside; finding the coin is considered lucky. Churches hold special services, and many homes are decorated with straw, representing the manger. It’s a time of spiritual reflection, family togetherness, and traditional customs.
Statehood Day
Statehood Day, observed on February 15th and 16th, commemorates two critical events in Serbian history. First, it marks the beginning of the First Serbian Uprising against Ottoman rule in 1804, led by Karađorđe Petrović. This uprising paved the way for Serbia’s independence. Second, it celebrates the adoption of the first Serbian constitution in 1835, known as the Sretenje Constitution. This document established Serbia as a sovereign state and introduced modern democratic principles. Today, Statehood Day is a time for Serbians to reflect on their national identity, cultural heritage, and struggles for independence. Official ceremonies, parades, and cultural events are held across the country. Many people use this two-day holiday to spend time with family or visit historical sites related to Serbia’s fight for statehood.
Orthodox Good Friday
Orthodox Good Friday, also known as Great Friday, is a solemn day in the Serbian Orthodox calendar. It remembers the death of Jesus Christ on the cross and his sacrifice at Calvary. The date varies each year, falling on the Friday before Orthodox Easter. On this day, many Serbians observe fasting avoiding meat and dairy products. Churches hold special services, including the Vespers of Good Friday, where a cloth icon of Christ’s body (epitaphios) is carried in a procession. Believers often visit churches to pay respects to the epitaphios. Some families dye eggs red on this day, symbolizing the blood of Christ. The mood is one of quiet reflection and mourning. Many people spend time in prayer or reading religious texts, preparing spiritually for the joy of Easter Sunday.
Orthodox Easter Monday
Orthodox Easter Monday follows Orthodox Easter Sunday and is part of the most important religious celebration in Serbia. It falls on a different date each year, always the day after Orthodox Easter. This day continues the joyous celebration of Christ’s resurrection. Families and friends often gather for festive meals, enjoying traditional foods like roast lamb and colored eggs. A popular custom is egg tapping, where people tap their colored eggs against others to see whose egg is the strongest. Many Serbians visit relatives or go on picnics if the weather is nice. Some communities organize egg hunts for children. Churches continue to hold special services. The day is filled with a spirit of renewal, hope, and togetherness as people extend the Easter greetings and celebrations for another day.
Labour Day
Labour Day, celebrated on May 1st and 2nd in Serbia, honors workers and their contributions to society. This holiday has its roots in the international labor movement and was first celebrated in Yugoslavia in 1893. Today, it’s a time for rest for many Serbians. People often use this two-day holiday for short trips, picnics, or barbecues with family and friends. In cities, there might be parades or concerts organized by worker’s unions. Some communities hold sporting events or outdoor festivals. While the political significance of the day has diminished over time, it remains an essential break for workers and an unofficial start to the spring season. People have more time to enjoy their free time and respect the value of their work now that many businesses and government offices are closed.
Armistice Day
ceasefire Day is November 11. It remembers the ceasefire that ended World War I by being signed between the Allies and Germany in 1918. For Serbia, this day holds special significance as it marks the country’s victory and remembers the enormous sacrifices made during the war. Ceremonies are held at memorials and military cemeteries across Serbia, with the main event taking place in Belgrade. People wear Natalie’s Ramonda, a purple flower symbolizing Serbian suffering and resilience during WWI. A minute of silence is often observed at 11:00 AM. Schools may hold special lessons about the war’s history. While it’s a day of somber remembrance, it also celebrates peace and honors the bravery of those who fought for Serbia’s freedom. Many Serbians use this day for reflection on their nation’s history.