How is Christmas celebrated in Bosnia? Catholics, Orthodox, and Muslims celebrate it as a holiday of love and tolerance.

Do you know how Christmas is celebrated in Bosnia?

They are called Bozic, and they are about traditions, love, and mutual tolerance.

You will also learn what must not be missing on the table at Bosnian Christmas.

When is Christmas celebrated in Bosnia?

There are two Christmases in Bosnia. Catholics celebrate on December 25, while Orthodox celebrate two weeks later, on January 6-7. The reason is the observance of different calendars—Julian and Gregorian. For example, Christmas is celebrated similarly in Ukraine.

The country has a significant Muslim population. It’s worth noting that Christmas is not a Muslim holiday. Muslims do not celebrate the birth of Jesus or their prophet Muhammad. However, Muslims residing in countries where Christmas is traditionally celebrated do consider it a family holiday. They use this time to exchange gifts and spend quality time with their loved ones.

Who brings the children’s presents?

In Bosnia, it is customary for Santa Claus to bring gifts to children. Sometimes, his granddaughter Snegurochka accompanies him. On New Year’s Day, Santa Claus distributes presents to good and well-behaved children, who eagerly and impatiently await his arrival. Unlike Santa Claus, who is known for his red attire, Santa Claus in Bosnia is recognized for his long blue coat.

Traditional food eaten at Christmas in Bosnia

During holidays, sarma is the main traditional dish. It consists of minced meat wrapped in cabbage leaves with sauce.

Sarmatian Recipe

Prepare delicious traditional food eaten at Christmas in Bosnia.

What you will need:

• 1 onion
• 1 cabbage
• 18 oz of minced meat
• 1 cup of rice
• a little oil
• water
• salt
• spices

Preparation:

1. First, wash the cabbage and prepare the leaves. Boil them in boiling salted water. Immediately cool them in ice water and let them drain.
2. Finely chop the onion.
3. Put the minced meat in a bowl; add chopped onion, a little salt, spices to taste, and a cup of uncooked rice. Mix thoroughly.
4. Pour a little water into the bowl with the meat mixture. If the meat is lean and dry after cooking, add some oil.
5. Now, wrap the mixture from the bowl in the cabbage leaves to make smaller rolls.
6. Place the finished rolls in the baking pan. Pour in a little water.
7. Bake in the oven at 212°F (You can cook on low heat for about an hour.)
8. It is usually served with potatoes or mashed potatoes.

Bosnian Christmas traditions and customs

Folk traditions and customs are held among people in all countries. Christmas is no different in Bosnia, either.

Traditional mass

On Christmas Day, it is customary to attend midnight mass, which takes place in cathedrals all over the country. The midnight mass here is called Ponocka. Because it is a time-honored social tradition, you will meet Catholics, Orthodox, and Muslims here in the church.

Straw on the floor

Among the folk Christmas traditions in Bosnia is spreading straw on the floor. Then, the oldest woman in the family comes, clucking like a hen and throwing sweets and candies into the straw behind her.

A log for the fireplace on Christmas Eve

Some people believe that a log brought into the house on Christmas Day will bring them protection, luck, and prosperity for the coming year. It must be placed in the fire on Christmas Eve, accompanied by rituals and prayers.

Exciting places to see in Bosnia

Christmas markets in Sarajevo

A large number of Christmas markets are also organized in Bosnia at Christmas. Handicrafts, traditional food, and drinks are sold here. You will also come across several toys, books, and even cosmetics. You can even skate here for free on the outdoor ice rink. Although they are not very big markets, residents enjoy them and have become part of the Christmas celebrations.

Experience cultural events at PAN Winter Pub

The PAN Winter Pub is located inside the Sarajevo Holiday Market and offers daily cultural events from the afternoon until early morning. The large tent is perfect for live music, concerts, comedy skits, and many other entertaining acts. You can expect to have lots of festive fun with plenty of food and drinks, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic, to create an unforgettable evening. Admission is free, except on New Year’s Eve.

Walk in Banja Luka

In Banja Luka, Bosnia, you can explore the old town’s beautifully decorated and illuminated streets. You can even hire a guide to tell you the Christmas stories and legends associated with the place.

Skiing area

Lovers of winter sports can spend their holidays in the mountains. The Olympic Ski Center, which also offers accommodation, is about 40 minutes from Sarajevo. So, if you want to spend the weekend skiing or snowboarding in the mountains, the Jahorina area will be right for you. But you don’t have to drive far. See where else you can spend Christmas in the mountains.