Longer weekends, the chance to sleep in, and to enjoy a field trip with friends without having to make it all fit in 48 hours?! – Sign us up! Bank holidays are always welcome! Serbian people usually have a bank holiday during their Statehood Day, better known as Sretenje.
What is Sretenje and Why Do Serbian People Celebrate It?
Sretenje Gospodnje, or Candlemas is a Christian feast day that commemorates the presentation of Jesus at the Temple by Joseph and Mary. It’s one of the oldest feasts of the church, believed to be celebrated in Jerusalem since the 380s. Candlemas is celebrated in many countries around the world, including France, Belgium, Germany, Hungary, Luxembourg, Spain, Sweden, Mexico, Peru, etc.
Besides being a significant Christian holiday, Sretenje Gospodnje has another, special meaning in Serbia’s history and for Serbian people. As mentioned in the introduction, Sretenje Gospodnje is a day that commemorates Serbia’s Statehood Day on the 15th of February. This date has always been significant in the history of the Serbian people:
- 1804: Inception of the First Serbian Uprising
- 1835: First democratic constitution of Serbia – Sretenje Constitution
- 1909: The First Assembly of Serbs in the Ottoman Empire
Statehood Day (Dan Državnosti) is a public national holiday, and the celebration lasts for two days. This makes it very likely to connect with the weekend, offering people a great opportunity to rest or book a short trip to rejuvenate!
Stories and Legends About Sretenje
There is a belief that on Sretenje winter and summer are meeting. If the day of the holiday is sunny, and bears, scared of their own shadow, go back to hibernation, it is believed that winter will last six more weeks.
One of the traditions is to light candles because the candle flame has magic powers, and is believed to protect the house from thunder and bad luck. And if you are a young woman, beware! One of the most interesting stories and beliefs is that young women must be careful who they see first thing in the morning because their spouse will be just like that based on looks and character.
Are You Interested in Learning More About Serbian (Bank) Holidays?
Today, we have led you through a journey of Sretenje Gospodnje – what it is and what it represents. Serbian language, culture, and lifestyle are rich in more stories, traditions, and intriguing vocabulary waiting for you to explore! If you want to learn more with us, you need to check our website, see the lessons we offer to people worldwide, and contact us for any further information!
