Orthodox Easter Monday 2025
Date: April 21, 2025 (Monday)
Country: Serbia Public Holidays
Description
Orthodox Easter Monday in Serbia is a public holiday that follows Orthodox Easter. It is a day when people rest from work and school to continue celebrating the most important event in the Christian year.
The holiday falls the day after Orthodox Easter. Orthodox Easter date changes each year because it follows the Julian calendar and church rules for calculating Pascha. This means it usually occurs in April or May and sometimes on a different date than Western Easter.
The day is important because it honors the resurrection of Jesus, which is central to Christian belief. For many Serbians it is a time to reflect on faith, family, and community.
Orthodox Easter Monday also has wider cultural meaning. It strengthens national identity and connects people to their religious history and the Serbian Orthodox Church. Families and communities use the day to spend time together and observe the spiritual significance of Easter.
Traditions
On Orthodox Easter Monday in Serbia families keep visiting relatives and close friends. People often greet each other with the traditional phrase Hristos vaskrse and exchange brightly painted eggs. Children play egg tapping games to see whose egg stays uncracked.
Many families hold long meals. Roasted lamb or pork, fresh salads, and a special sweet bread called pogacha appear on the table. Desserts include kolac and sweet pastries made at home. Guests are welcomed with coffee and homemade rakija in some homes.
People also tend graves of loved ones, leaving painted eggs and flowers. In villages people gather outdoors for picnics and barbecues. The day is full of visiting, sharing food, games, and small rituals that keep family ties strong.
Travel Tips
Many shops, banks, and some museums have reduced hours or are closed on Orthodox Easter Monday. Public transport may run less often and taxis can be busy after services. Plan travel ahead and check opening times before you go.
Join public events calmly and ask before taking photos. Wear simple clothes and keep valuables secure in crowds. Book restaurants in advance or look for places near tourist areas that stay open. Have a copy of important documents and know emergency numbers.