The Orthodox Christmas, observed in Montenegro, is celebrated on the 7th of January. This differs from the date many western countries celebrate Christmas, which is on December 25th. The difference is due to the use of the Julian calendar by the Orthodox Church, which is 13 days behind the Gregorian calendar that is commonly used.
The celebration of Orthodox Christmas in Montenegro is characterized by deep-rooted customs and traditions. One tradition is the 'položajnik', a chosen person who is the first to visit a family, symbolizing Jesus visiting on his birthday. The individual is expected to step right foot first into the house and strike a log with a wooden stick, to bring the family good luck in the year to come.
Orthodox Christmas in Montenegro is a joyous occasion that brings families together. Festive meals, often including dishes like 'pečenica' (roasted pork) and 'česnica' (a ceremonial, round loaf of bread), play a vital part of the celebration. It’s a quiet, family day, marked by religious observances and the warmth of shared traditions, making it an integral part of the country's cultural identity.