Easter Monday in North Macedonia, known as Велики Понеделник (Veliki Ponedelnik) in Macedonian, is a continuation of the Easter celebration. As a predominantly Orthodox Christian country, North Macedonia follows the Julian calendar for religious holidays, which often places Orthodox Easter at a different date from the Western Christian Easter.

Traditions:

• Religious Services: The day is marked by attending church services, where the Easter liturgy continues from the previous day. It is a less solemn and more celebratory service compared to Good Friday.

• Family Gatherings: Families and friends gather to continue the celebrations started on Easter Sunday. These gatherings often include large meals with traditional foods.

• Egg Cracking: Continuing from Easter Sunday, the tradition of cracking red-dyed eggs, symbolizing the blood of Christ and rebirth, is still practiced.

Activities:

• Outdoor Activities: With spring in full bloom, people often take advantage of the public holiday to enjoy outdoor activities like picnics and walks in nature.

• Visiting Relatives: It's common for people to visit relatives they couldn't see on Easter Sunday.

Historical Aspect:

The celebration of Easter Monday in North Macedonia has deep historical roots tied to Eastern Orthodox Christianity. Over centuries, these traditions have been preserved and passed down through generations.

Current Practices:

Today, while some traditions remain deeply religious, others have evolved into more secular family-oriented activities. The day is recognized as a public holiday across North Macedonia, allowing people to take time off work and school to celebrate.

In summary, Easter Monday in North Macedonia is a blend of religious observance and family celebration that reflects both historical traditions and contemporary practices.