SARAJEVO, May 6 (FENA) – The Roma people today celebrate Đurđevdan (St. George’s Day), one of the most important Roma holidays.

After the traditional early morning ritual of Đurđevdan, including bathing and washing, celebrations begin with music, dancing and prepared meals.

‘Đurđevdan’, or ‘Jurjevo’, is one of the oldest and most joyful Roma holidays. On Đurđevdan, Roma celebrate the arrival of spring and better weather.

In the Catholic Church, Jurjevo is celebrated as a name day on April 23, while in the Orthodox Church it is known as Đurđevdan and is marked on May 6.

By celebrating Đurđevdan, Roma mark the arrival of spring, the awakening of nature, new journeys and improved living conditions under the open sky. It is celebrated by Roma of all religious backgrounds.

At this time of year, Roma communities have for centuries gathered to welcome spring with song, traditional dances, food and various symbolic rituals.