New Year's Day

**New Year's Day in Serbia** is celebrated on January 1st, marking the beginning of the new year according to the Gregorian calendar. It is one of the most widely observed holidays in the country, filled with joy, festivities, and traditions. Serbians celebrate with family gatherings, festive meals, and lively parties. Traditional foods such as *sarma* (cabbage rolls), *pečenje* (roast meat), and *česnica* (a special New Year's bread) are often served. At midnight, fireworks light up the skies, and people toast with champagne or *rakija* (a traditional fruit brandy). Many also exchange gifts and make resolutions for the year ahead. In addition to the Gregorian New Year, some Serbians also celebrate the Orthodox New Year on January 14th, following the Julian calendar. Overall, New Year's Day in Serbia is a time for reflection, celebration, and hope for a prosperous year to come.