As the end of the year approaches, we are getting ready for New Year’s Eve but also for celebrating one of the most widespread Serbian Slavas. As an event that is exclusively related to the Serbian nation, UNESCO has inscribed Slava on the list of intangible cultural heritage.

The real atmosphere and traditional customs that accompany this celebration can be experienced only if you host a celebration or are one of the guests. Traditionally, Serbs will welcome you with open arms and save you a seat at their festive table since this is the feast honoring the parton of the family who was celebrated by their ancestors.

The ritual of making and breaking the Slava Bread, and preparing boiled wheat, candle, and red wine toasts, are the customs that children learn from their parents in continuing the tradition from one generation to the next. Some of that remained even as a heritage from the period before adopting Christianity while Orthodoxy brought an authentic significance to this olden celebration.

So, enjoy the celebration of Saint Nicolas, protector of rafters, fishermen, and all travelers this December. As Saint Nicolas loved children and gave them gifts, the tradition of handing over walnuts, hazelnuts, apples, and sweets stuck with the Serbian nation.

Did you know that no sailor sets sail on December 19?