August in Serbia is a celebration of colors, flavors, scents, and sounds – from folk dances and humor to the aroma of plums and barbecue, ending with the powerful riffs of rock music. Throughout the month, the country comes alive with festivals, and here are five highlights that will make the end of summer unforgettable.
Srem Folk Fest
📅 August 11–14, 2025
📍 Sremska Mitrovica – Žitni trg
In mid-August, Sremska Mitrovica turns into a vibrant stage for the world. Srem Folk Fest is an international event bringing together folk dance ensembles from various countries. Visitors can enjoy an open-air spectacle of traditional music, singing, and colorful costumes – from the dynamic rhythms of the Balkans to the graceful moves of faraway cultures. Alongside the performances, guests can stroll along the Sava River and experience the famous hospitality of Srem.
Nušićijada
📅 August 22–24, 2025
📍 Ivanjica
At the end of August, Ivanjica becomes a time machine, taking visitors back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Streets come alive with elegantly dressed ladies, gentlemen in classic suits, playful children, and street performers. Nušićijada is a festival of humor, theater, film, music, and street entertainment, where the entire town participates. Cafés and restaurants are decorated with flags bearing the image of Branislav Nušić, playing old Serbian tunes and creating an atmosphere reminiscent of a bygone era. Here, the whole town becomes a stage, and every guest a part of the show.
Days of Plum
📅 August 22–24, 2025
📍 Blace
In the heart of the Toplica region, Blace celebrates its most famous fruit – the plum. The festival features local producers offering fresh plums, rakija (fruit brandy), jams, and preserves. The main “Plum Street” is lined with stalls, while competitions crown the best producer of the year. There are also expert lectures and live entertainment, making this event a perfect blend of agriculture, tradition, and community spirit.
Roštiljijada – Barbecue Festival
📅 August 25–31, 2025
📍 Leskovac – Široka čaršija
The unmistakable aroma of grilled meat fills Leskovac at the end of August. Roštiljijada is one of the largest barbecue festivals in Europe, attracting tens of thousands of visitors. Grill masters compete to prepare the juiciest roštilj – pljeskavica, ćevapi, and sausages, while the audience enjoys tastings and live music. For many, this is also an opportunity to explore Leskovac – a city famous for its food and warm southern Serbian hospitality.
Zaječar Guitar Festival – Gitarijada
📅 August 28–30, 2025
📍 Zaječar
Late August in Zaječar is all about rock music. Gitarijada is one of the oldest festivals of its kind in Europe, with a history spanning more than half a century. The program combines competitions for up-and-coming bands with concerts by rock legends. The energy is contagious, and many visitors combine the festival with a trip to the nearby Felix Romuliana archaeological site, blending music and history into one unique summer experience.
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