Family
Dating and Marriage
Arts
Recreation
Traditions
Food
It's common for many generations to all live in the same home, and if that is not the case, then they live in close proximity to each other.
There are many traditions surrounding marriage in Serbia, one being that weddings are an event that last for days. In order for the marriage to be prosperous and filled with children, the woman is supposed to stand in the doorway of the newlywed's home and lift up a baby boy three times.
Beautiful textiles woven with wool, flax and hemp are popular in Serbia. Many colors and different geometric styles are used to make carpets.
Decorating easter eggs is a tradition that is long standing in Serbia. Intricate designs are painted on eggs that are in floral patterns with natural colors.
Naive art is a style that has been practiced in Serbia for generations. This style was created by self taught artists that disagree with traditional art techniques. Many of these paintings depict rural life in a simplistic way, and are influenced by folk tales. Bright, colorful paintings are filled with self discovery, for the backbone of Naive art is to discover technique as the painting develops.
Skiing is very popular in Serbia, dating back to the beginning of the 20th century. Kopaonik is a the most developed resort in Serbia, and is right in the middle of a National park.
Horse riding dates back to the 19th century, with the Belgrade Hippodrome built in 1914 to hold races and meetings. Visiting the local farms are a perfect opportunity to learn about the history of horse breeding in Serbia.
Krsna Slava (Thanksgiving) is an Orthodox holiday where each family celebrates their patron saint that has been passed down for many generations. This holiday is celebrated on the day their ancestors were baptized. Sveti Nikola (St. Nicholas) is a common saint among many families. Celebrations include feasting, singing and dedicating energy to become spiritually renewed to the Orthodox faith.
The Slava is a family tradition, and is generally held in the oldest member's home to pay reverence to the patron saint. The Slava candle is put out with wine, that is later passed around for all family members to drink to symbolize the unity of the family unit.
The evening before celebration (St. Nicholas Eve) children place a shoe on the windowsill, and in the morning there are mysterious presents such as fruit, nuts, small toys and school supplies in the shoe. Children that are naughty receive an onion as their present.
Wheat is placed in a small bowl with a candle in the middle, and by midwinter the sprouts are full which symbolizes Christ's birth.
Serbian food is a fusion between Mediterranean and Central European cuisine. In the summer there are lighter options such a fresh tomato and potato salads, along with heavier options in winter such as Sarma, traditional pork stuffed cabbage rolls. There are also many different breads, Pita being a popular one, pastry made with cheese in the middle.
Urnebes- a potent garlic spread used on meat, which directly translates to "chaotic spread". Ingredients include local feta and sour cream purchased at Serbian farmer's markets to create it's unique creamy flavor.
Ajvar- this red capsicum sauce is a traditional preserve spread that is enjoyed on bread. Made with garlic, eggplants, capsicums and salt, this delicacy has been made for generations in Serbian families.
Kiflice- pastry filled with hazelnut spread or jam served with coffee, tea, or plum brandy
