Bosnia and HerzegovinaWe're here to help you keep count of the days to or since a date. Just click the button below and enter your chosen date to get started. Also choose the suggested days or search for a special day above #countingthedays
Christmas Day in Bosnia and Herzegovina, celebrated on December 25th, is a significant holiday for the country's Christian population, primarily Catholics and Orthodox Christians, although Orthodox believers follow the Julian calendar and celebrate on January 7th.
Religious Services: Both Catholic and Orthodox Christians attend special church services. Midnight Mass is particularly important for Catholics, while Orthodox Christians have the Divine Liturgy on Christmas Day.
Badnjak: For Orthodox Christians, the tradition of bringing a ceremonial log (Badnjak) into the home on Christmas Eve is symbolic of the wood used to warm the manger for Jesus' birth.
Christmas Trees: Similar to Western traditions, many Bosnians decorate Christmas trees with ornaments and lights.
Hay and Nativity Scenes: It's common to spread hay under the dining tablecloth in remembrance of Christ's humble birthplace. Nativity scenes may also be displayed.
Food: The festivities include feasting with traditional foods like roasted meats, sarma (cabbage rolls), various pastries, and desserts such as baklava.
Family Gatherings: Christmas is a family-oriented holiday where families come together to share meals and exchange gifts.
Charity: Acts of charity are encouraged during this time; people may volunteer or donate to those less fortunate.
Public Celebration: While Bosnia and Herzegovina is a country with diverse religious beliefs including a significant Muslim population that does not celebrate Christmas, public decorations can be seen in areas with larger Christian communities.
The celebration of Christmas in Bosnia and Herzegovina reflects its multicultural fabric while maintaining unique traditions that bind communities during this festive season.