Today is Lazarus Saturday - Vrbica

Lazarus Saturday or Vrbica is always celebrated in the last week of Lent before Easter. Lazarus Saturday because it is believed that on this day Jesus Christ resurrected Lazarus from Bethany. Evening services are held in churches and temples, and a young, newly leaved willow is necessarily brought. After the willow is consecrated, the clergy will distribute willow branches to the people.

On this day, children dress up festively and go to church with their parents. There, bells are bought and placed around the children's necks. Fresh wreaths are also bought and placed on the children's heads. It is customary to bring a wreath into the house and place it next to the icon and the oil candle church lamp.

Vrbica is also St. Patron's Day of many households in Serbia. The date changes every year, but it is always during the Great Lent before Easter, so meals are according to it.

St. Mark's Church is the right choice for celebrating Vrbica with children. After visiting the church, continue to Tasmajdan Park and enjoy outdoor play and the rich program of the event "Belgrade Family Days 2025". On Saturday, April 12th, the program begins at 11:00.

Belgrade Family Days Tasmajdan Park complete weekend program

Saturday, April 12th

The training ground for the youngest includes dance choreographies with costumed animators, precision games, mini football, mini basketball, mini volleyball, Survivor obstacle course for older children, Fit Light markers for reaction speed.

Sunday, April 13th

Why is Lazarus Saturday celebrated - Vrbica

The Saturday of the Righteous Lazarus is a date dedicated to the resurrection of Lazarus, and was established in Jerusalem at the end of the fourth century. Jesus resurrected him after four days in the tomb. After the resurrection, Lazarus was a bishop in Cyprus.

Vrbica is a common St. Patron's Day, and it always carries with it the same custom - newly leaved willow branches are harvested, from which wreaths are made and given to children. This holiday is an important day for every child.

Lazarus Saturday - Vrbica is a holiday of children's joy. According to the Gospel, Jesus Christ said before going to Jerusalem: "Let the children come to me for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these."

Until World War II, Vrbica was celebrated in all schools with a festive program. Children went to school beautifully dressed, decorated with bells, and went to church with their teachers.