Christmas Day in Montenegro

Date: December 25 (Gregorian calendar) for Catholics and January 7 (Julian calendar) for Orthodox Christians.

History and Traditions

Montenegro, with its diverse religious landscape, celebrates Christmas according to both the Gregorian and Julian calendars. The majority of the population adheres to Serbian Orthodox Christianity, thus celebrating on January 7th, while a significant Roman Catholic minority observes December 25th.

Orthodox Christmas:

• Badnjak: On the eve of Orthodox Christmas, it is traditional to bring an oak branch or log into the home, known as a "badnjak," symbolizing the wood that the shepherds brought to warm baby Jesus after his birth.
• Christmas Eve: Families gather and burn the badnjak. This is accompanied by liturgies and communal events.
• First Footing: Known as "položajnik", this tradition involves a young boy who enters the house first on Christmas Day. He symbolizes good luck and blessings for the family.

Catholic Christmas:

• Celebrations are more aligned with Western customs.
• Midnight Mass: Attending church services is common practice.
• Gift-giving: Exchanging presents on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day is customary.

What People Do

On both observances of Christmas Day in Montenegro:

• Families gather at home to share a festive meal. Traditional foods include roast pork, "priganice" (fritters), and various sweets.
• Homes are decorated with Nativity scenes, lights, and other festive decorations.
• Attending church services holds significant importance for many Montenegrins during this period.

Both celebrations are characterized by an emphasis on family unity, reflection on spiritual values, and spreading goodwill.