While most of Europe packs up its markets by the 26th of December, Belgrade is just getting started. Serbian Orthodox Christmas falls on 7th January, and the weeks leading up to it bring the badnjak ceremony, where oak branches are publicly burned outside the Temple of Saint Sava, masked koledari carollers in the countryside, and česnica bread with a hidden coin. The celebrations continue through to Epiphany, marked by a dramatic cross dive at Ada Ciganlija.
Belgrade Christmas Market 2026
Dates and Location
Status: Expected, based on previous years
Belgrade dates: 1st December 2026 to 6th January 2027
Last checked: July 2026
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Location: Trg Republike (Republic Square).
Opening times: 10am to 11pm.
Christmas Day: Closed.
Admission: Free.
Badnjak: Lighting of the badnjak (oak branch) takes place at the Temple of St Sava.
Santa: Known as Deda Mraz (Grandpa Frost) in Serbia.
Epiphany: Marks the end of festivities with the traditional cross dive following later in the month at Ada Ciganlija.
Ice skating: Pionir Ice Hall.
Activities: Indoor amusement park, skating rink, concerts, beer festival, annual Deda Mraz charity race.
Vegetarian: Plenty of options.
Vegan: Some options.
Gluten free: Limited.
Accessible: Yes.
Pet-friendly: Yes, but not recommended during busy periods.
Parking: Please take public transport to help limit congestion.
Reason to visit: Orthodox traditions, regional food, Serbian music and dance, New Year’s parties, legendary nightlife culture.
Recommended tour: Belgrade Fortress underground tour.
Specialities: Mulled wine, roasted chestnuts, sarma, ajvar, cevapi; traditional Serbian festive food.
Where to stay: Boutique Hotel Museum is located direcly across from Republic Square.
Convenient Hotels
Stari Grad is the ideal area to stay in Belgrade if you wish to be near the winter market. This central location provides easy access to the market and other city attractions.
I recommend the Boutique Hotel Museum, a popular hotel in an ideal location across the market. You can’t get closer.
Interesting Tours
I recommend this unique underground tour of Belgrade Fortress.
On a city tour, you’ll likely visit some of Belgrade’s most renowned landmarks, including the lively Republic Square and the Church of Saint Sava.
Location
What to Expect
Belgrade’s winter market takes place at Trg Republike (Republic Square), featuring colourful wooden huts filled with Christmas delicacies and souvenirs. The festivities include an indoor amusement park, skating rink, concerts, and a beer festival.
The annual Deda Mraz race sees thousands of people donning Santa attire and running through the capital for charity. As January approaches, Orthodox Christmas presents the opportunity to experience timeless religious traditions at historic Orthodox temples, such as the Temple of St. Sava.
The burning of the badnjak (an oak branch) is a significant Serbian Christmas tradition that is publicly commemorated. The celebration extends into the end of January, with the dramatic Epiphany cross dive at Ada Ciganlija attracting numerous competitors and spectators, marking the end of the extended celebrations.
Food Specialties
- Cesnica – Traditional Serbian Christmas bread containing a hidden coin for good fortune. Often decorated with Christian symbols.
- Sarma – Cabbage rolls stuffed with minced meat and rice.
- Čevapi – Grilled minced meat sausages, typically served with flatbread and onions.
- Ajvar – Red pepper and aubergine spread, a Serbian staple.
- Mulled Wine – Made with local Serbian wines.
- Winter Punch – Mix of juices and spices, sometimes with alcohol.
- Rakija (Plum Brandy) – Serbia’s national spirit made from plums.
- Slatko – Traditional fruit preserves.
- Roasted Chestnuts – Classic winter street food.
Unique Gifts
- Oak Branch Badnjak – Central to Serbian traditions, burned on Christmas Eve.
- Wooden Toys – Local artisans create pieces often representing Serbian folklore.
- Lavender Products – Scented candles, soaps, and sachets from local lavender fields.
- Traditional Textiles – Woven rugs, tablecloths, and scarves with Serbian folk patterns.
- Pirot Kilims – Flat tapestry-woven carpets with geometric designs from the Pirot region.
- Honey and Honey Products – Local varieties and cosmetics.
- Serbian Wines and Rakija – Bottles from regional vineyards.
Sustainability Tips
- Stay at eco-friendly hotels that use renewable energy sources and employ energy-saving practices.
- Be mindful of portion sizes at market stalls and order only what you can eat.
- Buy only items you genuinely need, focusing on handmade crafts by local artisans.
- Consider vegetarian or plant-based options, which typically require fewer resources to produce
- Use Belgrade’s extensive public transportation system, which includes buses, trams, and trolleybuses.
- Explore the walkable city centre on foot, especially around Stari Grad.
- Support local charities running campaigns during the festive season.
If you’d like to leave a review of the Xmas market, please comment below.
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Recommendations are independently chosen based on personal travel experiences and extensive research. While we make every effort to provide accurate information, the dates and details listed here should not be relied upon as definitive. Please consult the official website before booking your trip or planning a visit.
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