In Serbia, New Year's Day is one of the most important holidays. The celebration is unique, typically blending Orthodox religion traditions with modern party-throwing. Celebrations for the New Year often begin on December 31st, with festivities and the gathering of families and friends. Many people in Serbia attend concerts or fireworks displays to mark the countdown. Many restaurants and clubs in the country also offer special New Year's Eve parties.
On New Year's Day itself, which is a public holiday in Serbia, people usually relax after the previous night's celebrations. They spend the day visiting family and friends, exchanging gifts, and offering each other best wishes for the upcoming year. In addition, one important tradition famous in Serbia is the 'First Footer'. According to this tradition, the first person to visit your home after midnight, ideally a tall dark-haired male, should bring good luck for the upcoming year.
While the Gregorian New Year's is widely celebrated in Serbia, the Serbs also celebrate 'Serbian New Year', which falls on January 14th, according to the Julian calendar. Orthodox Churches in Serbia still use the Julian calendar, hence the difference in dates celebrated. During this time, another round of large festivities and family gatherings occur, essentially delivering a 'second round' of New Year celebrations. This is a perfect representation of Serbian enthusiasm and fondness for prolonged celebrations.