What is Serbian Slava? - Everything you need to know about Serbian Slava
Find out everything you need to know about this unique Serbian traditional holiday. What is Serbian Slava? When is it celebrated? Who is celebrating Slava? Who are we celebrating?
What are Serbian Orthodox Slavas?
Serbian Orthodox Slavas are unique celebrations of family patron saints, which are celebrated by Serbian Orthodox Christians around the world. The term "Slava" comes from the old Slavic word for "glory" or "honor" and is a deeply cherished tradition that is passed down through generations of Serbian families.
What does Serbian Slava look like?
The celebration of Serbian Slava is an important event that brings together family members to honor their patron saint. The day begins with a special celebration service at the local Serbian Orthodox Church, followed by a feast of traditional Serbian dishes and customs that differ depending on the celebration being celebrated.
How many Slavs are there in Serbia and which are the most common Slavs in Serbia?
Over 200 Slavas are celebrated in Serbia, and some of the most common are:
- Saint Nicholas (St. Nicholas) on December 19
- Saint John the Baptist (Saint John) January 20
- Saint George (Saint George) May 6
- Sveti Dimitrije (St. Dimitrije) November 8
How do you congratulate Slava?
During the Serbian Slava, it is traditionally said "Happy Slava". This greeting is exchanged between family members and friends throughout the day.
What day is Serbian Slava?
The Day of Serbian Slava is determined by the patron saint of the family and is celebrated in honor of the saint. For example, if the patron of the family is Saint Nicholas, their Glory will be celebrated on December 19.
What is happening at Serbian Slava?
A typical Serbian Slava includes:
- Worship service in the local Serbian Orthodox Church
- A feast of traditional Serbian dishes, such as sarma, kebabs and pita
- Breaking of Slavic bread (Klivjo)
- Lighting the celebratory candle
- Sharing the slavish blessing to family and friends
What is given away for Slava?
It is customary to bring a small gift or dish to the Serbian celebration. Some common gifts are a bottle of brandy, a bouquet of flowers or a celebration cake.
How can you celebrate Serbian Slava at home?
If you are unable to attend the celebration of Serbian Slava, you can still celebrate at home:
- Slava candle - this is usually a large candle that stands in a traditional candlestick and is lit during the glory celebration and held next to the icon of the Slavic saint.
- The icon of the Slavic saint - this is the central part of the celebration of the glory. It is usually placed on a special iconostasis or in a special place in the house.
- Slava bread - this is a specially decorated bread that represents the body of Christ. It is usually cut and shared among the guests during the celebration of the glory.
- Slavic candle - this is a smaller candle that we light in a lamp in front of the icon of the Slavic saint during prayer.
- Rakija - this is a traditional Serbian drink that is served to guests during the celebration of glory.
- Food - traditional Serbian dishes are usually served, such as roast, sarma, beans, prosciutto, cheese, cream and sweets such as cakes and baklava.
- Table - to celebrate the glory, it is necessary to prepare a festive table with all the necessary dishes, glasses, cutlery and other details.
- Decoration - the house is usually decorated with flowers and other decorative elements, and a special place is prepared for the Slavic icon.
- Music - traditional Serbian music is often played during glory celebrations.
Celebrate Serbian Orthodox Slavas with serbianshop.com!
Serbian Orthodox Slavas are an important part of Serbian culture and tradition. If you want to celebrate your family's Slava or learn more about this unique Serbian celebration, visit serbianshop.com. Our online store offers a wide range of products and gifts for Slavic holidays, including icons and other religious items. Celebrate your family's Slava in style with serbianshop.com!
Related products
Read also
The Art of Celebration: Discover the Charm of Traditional Serbian Čutura Flasks for weddings
In the heart of Serbian culture lies a tradition that has woven itself into…
The Vinča Culture: Unlocking the Secrets of Europe's Ancient Innovators
Imagine uncovering a civilization so advanced and mysterious that it redefines…
What is the Serbian Ramonda: Symbol of the Rebirth of Serbia Teya is singing about
In the world of nature, there is one plant that has a special meaning for the…
Stepa Stepanović: Duke who Shaped the History of Serbia
Stepa Stepanović, a name that echoes throughout Serbian history, left an indelible…
Eagles prepare for flight: Are you rooting for Serbia at EURO 2024? National team jerseys are waiting at SerbianShop.com!
With the sound of the hymn "God's Justice" and the thunderous cheering of the…
Slava celebrations in March: Spring blessing and spiritual gathering
March, the month when nature awakens and spring gives a hint of its arrival,…
RAMONDA SERBICA - a drop of water as a symbol of peace
Following the example of the Russian St. George's ribbon and the British bun…
Leading the pack of wolves: The Reign of Emperor Dušan
The name Dušan evokes images of power, ambition, and an empire that stretched…
Serbia at EURO 2024: Are you ready to cheer? Order a jersey!
With the sound of the hymn "God's Justice" and the thunderous cheering of the…
SAINT SAVA - THE HOLY WORD OF SERBIAN LITERACY
In the second half of the 12th century, more precisely in 1175, Rastko Nemanjić…
The Lion's Roar: Serbia's Triumph at Kolubara
In the brutal winter of 1914, a different kind of storm raged across the Balkans.…
Natalijina Ramonda: Where to Buy and What to Know
In the heart of Serbian tradition and memory lies a remarkable flower, Natalijina…
Apply for newsletter
Sign up for the Serbianshop newsletter and get a 10% discount.