As we step into 2026, it’s time to plan ahead and mark your calendars with the key dates that define the year. Public holidays not only reflect a country’s culture and history but also provide muchneeded breaks from the daily routine.
In Serbia, these holidays carry deep historical, religious, and cultural significance offering residents and visitors alike the chance to celebrate, reflect, and recharge. From lively New Year’s festivities to solemn national commemorations, each holiday tells a story of resilience, faith, and national pride.
In this guide, we explore all the public holidays and days off in Serbia for 2026, their meanings, and how they are celebrated across the country.
List of Public Holidays in Serbia – 2026
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New Year’s Day (Nova Godina) – Thursday, January 1, 2026
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Orthodox Christmas (Božić) – Wednesday, January 7, 2026
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Statehood Day (Dan državnosti) – Sunday & Monday, February 15–16, 2026
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International Workers’ Day (Praznik rada) – Friday, May 1, 2026
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Victory Day (Dan pobede) – Saturday, May 9, 2026
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Saint Vitus Day (Vidovdan) – Sunday, June 28, 2026
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Armistice Day (Dan primirja) – Wednesday, November 11, 2026
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Catholic Christmas (Božić) – Friday, December 25, 2026
Public Holidays in Serbia – In Detail
New Year’s Day (Nova Godina) – January 1, 2026
Serbia welcomes the New Year with spectacular fireworks, music, and joyful gatherings. Celebrations start on New Year’s Eve, with streets in Belgrade, Novi Sad, and Niš filled with festivities, concerts, and good cheer. January 1 is a public holiday, giving everyone time to relax and celebrate with family and friends.
Orthodox Christmas (Božić) – January 7, 2026
Celebrated according to the Julian calendar, Orthodox Christmas is one of the most sacred holidays in Serbia. Families attend midnight church services, light the badnjak (oak branch), and share festive meals. The holiday symbolizes peace, love, and unity a time for family and faith. It is a national day off, allowing everyone to celebrate this cherished tradition.
Statehood Day (Dan državnosti) – February 15–16, 2026
Statehood Day honors two defining moments in Serbia’s history: the First Serbian Uprising in 1804 and the adoption of the first Serbian Constitution in 1835. The holiday is marked by parades, national ceremonies, and cultural events across the country. Falling on Sunday and Monday in 2026, it creates a two day break celebrating Serbia’s independence and unity.
International Workers’ Day (Praznik rada) – May 1, 2026
May Day celebrates workers’ rights and solidarity. In Serbia, it’s both a political and social event with labor parades, outdoor barbecues, and family picnics marking the arrival of spring. Falling on a Friday, it creates a three day long weekend, offering the perfect opportunity to unwind and enjoy nature.
Victory Day (Dan pobede) – May 9, 2026
Victory Day commemorates the end of World War II in Europe and honors those who fought for freedom. Serbians observe the day with military parades, memorial ceremonies, and moments of silence. It’s a time to remember the sacrifices made for peace and independence. Since it falls on a Saturday in 2026, many workplaces will observe the holiday on the preceding or following weekday.
Saint Vitus Day (Vidovdan) – June 28, 2026
Vidovdan is one of Serbia’s most important cultural and religious holidays. It commemorates the Battle of Kosovo (1389) a historic symbol of courage and national identity. The day is marked with church services, processions, and historical tributes. While it falls on a Sunday, it remains a deeply respected day of remembrance across the country.
Armistice Day (Dan primirja) – November 11, 2026
This solemn day marks the end of World War I and honors those who gave their lives for peace. Citizens wear the Natalie’s Ramonda flower, Serbia’s symbol of remembrance, and attend ceremonies at memorials nationwide. Falling on a Wednesday in 2026, it provides a midweek opportunity for reflection and gratitude.
Christmas Day (Božić) – December 25, 2026
While the majority of Serbs celebrate Orthodox Christmas on January 7, December 25 is observed by Serbia’s Catholic and Protestant communities. It’s a peaceful holiday spent attending church services, exchanging gifts, and sharing festive meals. The atmosphere is warm and joyful a true celebration of faith and family.
Conclusion
Public holidays in Serbia for 2026 beautifully combine history, tradition, and cultural pride. They provide moments for reflection, celebration, and connection both within families and across communities.
From the patriotic spirit of Statehood Day to the heartfelt traditions of Orthodox Christmas, these holidays showcase Serbia’s unique blend of heritage and modern life.
They also offer welcome breaks from work a chance to recharge, travel, and spend time with loved ones. And even in today’s connected world, you can still stay in touch through Zoom or other digital tools while enjoying your time off.
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, celebrating public holidays in Serbia in 2026 is a meaningful way to experience the country’s culture, warmth, and unshakable spirit.