Orthodox Easter Monday, known as Bright Monday, is a public holiday in Serbia, marked with grand celebrations and festivities. Following the Julian calendar, it usually falls after the regular Easter celebrations. It commemorates the resurrection of Jesus Christ, a notable event according to Christian beliefs. It marks the beginning of a unique post-Easter period named Bright Week, a week of continuous celebration and festivity.
Serbians observe Orthodox Easter Monday with various religious rituals and customs. Church services begin on Easter Sunday and continue until the next day, the Easter Monday. The services comprise readings, prayers, hymns and processions. Bright Week is considered a continuation of the Divine Liturgy of Pascha, and there is a marked absence of fasting throughout this week, as every day is treated as if it were a continuation of Easter.
Many Serbian homes are filled with the joyous mood and the aroma of special traditional dishes on Orthodox Easter Monday. Easter eggs, dyed mainly on Good Friday, are traditionally cracked after the midnight church service. There is also the tradition of the 'Easter bunny' gifting kids with chocolates and candies. It serves as a bonding time for families and community as everyone comes together to rejoice in the spirit of the holy season.