Bele Poklade: A Serbian Celebration of Forgiveness and Renewal

In various parts of Serbia, Bele Poklade is celebrated as a traditional festival marking the transition from indulgence to spiritual purification. This age-old custom, deeply rooted in Serbian folklore and Christian tradition, is observed in the final week before the Great Easter Fast. It is also known as Bela Nedelja, Velike Poklade, or Proštene Poklade, highlighting its role in reconciliation—where people seek and grant forgiveness for past grievances.

Origins and Significance

The origins of Bele Poklade trace back to pagan rituals celebrating the Sun and the arrival of spring. Over time, the Christian Church adapted these customs, embedding them into the liturgical calendar. The name “Bela” (White) symbolizes purity and the transition to a diet consisting mainly of dairy products and eggs, as meat consumption is already restricted during this week in preparation for Lent.

A Week of Festivities and Masquerades

Throughout the week leading up to Bele Poklade, communities across Serbia engage in festive feasting, social gatherings, and lively masquerade processions. The culmination occurs on the last day when masked participants, known as “mačkari” or “građani,” take to the streets dressed in elaborate costumes.

Bele poklade, Stubica, ph credit: Zblagojevic, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

In villages such as Lozovik in Velika Plana, young men and children don traditional disguises made from sheepskin, straw, feathers, and carved pumpkin masks, resembling supernatural beings, animals, or even well-known figures. Accompanied by the rhythmic clanging of bells, the pounding of wooden sticks against fences and thresholds, and deep, guttural chants, these masked performers move from house to house, reenacting an ancient rite of banishing evil spirits and welcoming the renewal of life.

The Ritual Bonfire – Cleansing by Fire

As night falls, villagers gather at a central square where a large bonfire, known as “jarga” or “opalija,” is lit. This fiery spectacle symbolizes the destruction of malevolent forces and the renewal of purity within the community.

Burning jarga on Bele poklade, ph credit: Zblagojevic, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

According to folklore, those who leap over the flames will be blessed with good health and protection throughout the year. The remaining ashes are often used to mark the foreheads of children as a protective charm against illness.

Bele Poklade in the Context of Global Carnival Traditions

Serbia’s Bele Poklade shares similarities with international pre-Lenten carnivals, such as Mardi Gras in France, Venice’s iconic Carnevale, and Brazil’s world-famous Rio Carnival. The essence of all these celebrations lies in the notion of bidding farewell to earthly indulgences before embarking on a spiritual journey of fasting and penance. The word “carnival” itself comes from Latin—carne vale, meaning “farewell to meat.”

A Living Tradition in Modern Serbia

Despite the changes brought by modernization, Bele Poklade remains a cherished tradition, particularly in rural Serbia. It not only preserves elements of ancient Slavic beliefs but also fosters community spirit, reminding people of the importance of forgiveness, unity, and the cyclical nature of life. For those lucky enough to witness this extraordinary event, it offers a captivating glimpse into Serbia’s rich cultural heritage, where folklore and faith intertwine in a truly unique way.

Many burning wax candles in orthodox church or temple for ceremony easter. Background orange candles easter burn in orthodox temples. Concept of church backgrounds for creativity. Copy space for site

From the echoing sounds of masked processions to the crackling flames of the farewell bonfire, Bele Poklade is more than just a festival—it is a bridge between the past and present, between indulgence and spiritual devotion.