Serbs, as one of the most proud and culturally rich nations, have spread across the globe, creating vibrant communities in many countries. While each Serb is an individual, there are some unique traits, behaviors, and customs that can help you recognize them—no matter where you are in the world. Whether you encounter a Serb in bustling New York, quiet Sydney, or a remote part of Europe, here are a few unmistakable signs to help you spot them:

1. Distinctive Language and Accent

One of the most obvious ways to identify a Serb is by hearing the Serbian language. Serbian, a South Slavic language, is written in both Cyrillic and Latin alphabets, but it is most often spoken with a distinct melodic intonation and rhythm.

Cyrillic alphabet

When a Serb speaks, there’s a certain vibrancy in their tone, often accompanied by expressive gestures and animated facial expressions. Even when speaking in another language, they can sometimes retain that signature accent, especially in English, which blends their native vowel sounds and consonants into something uniquely Serbian.

2. Pride in Their Heritage and Culture

Serbs have an undeniable pride in their heritage, and it shows in everything they do. Whether they’re in the heart of Belgrade or halfway across the world, Serbs never miss an opportunity to share stories about their rich history, cultural traditions, and especially the significance of family.

Traditional Serbian Patron Saint Day celebration

Serbian pride is often expressed through their national symbols, including the Serbian flag, the double-headed eagle, and the iconic “Ćirilična slova” (Cyrillic letters), which can often be seen on clothing, jewelry, and even tattoos. A Serb might also be seen displaying their pride during national holidays such as Vidovdan or Krsna Slava, a unique Serbian Orthodox tradition of celebrating family saints.

3. The Signature Love for Food and Drink

Serbs are passionate about their food, and it’s one of the best ways to spot them. Whether they’re at a family gathering or in a local restaurant, a Serb’s table is rarely without a plate of ćevapi (grilled minced meat), sarma (cabbage rolls), or ajvar (pepper-based relish).

Serbian Pljeskavica

The love for hearty, flavorful dishes is matched by an undeniable fondness for rakijaa strong Serbian fruit brandy that’s typically homemade and offered as a sign of hospitality. If you ever find yourself in the presence of a Serb, chances are you’ll be invited to share a shot of rakija, along with a welcoming “Živeli!” (Cheers!). If you’re not offered rakija, then you can be sure there’s something seriously wrong—offering it is part of their hospitality tradition.

4. Passionate About Sports

If you’re around a Serb long enough, you’ll undoubtedly witness their fiery passion for sports, especially football (soccer), basketball, and water polo. Whether it’s cheering for the Serbian national football team or supporting one of the major domestic clubs like Partizan or Red Star Belgrade (Crvena Zvezda), a Serb’s excitement is contagious.

Red Star and Partizan clubs

Their enthusiasm for sports runs deep, often translating into energetic conversations (or debates!) about players, coaches, and the team’s performance. In fact, it’s not uncommon to overhear Serbs passionately discussing their favorite team’s game—no matter where in the world they are.

5. Generosity and Warmth

Serbs are incredibly generous, often willing to go out of their way to help others, especially strangers. Hospitality is a cornerstone of Serbian culture, and a Serb will rarely let anyone leave their home without a full belly or a warm drink in hand.

Serbian Rakija
Close up on hands of two men toasting with traditional Serbian drink plum brandy rakija Slivovitza

This is a culture where the guest is treated with the utmost respect, and the idea of “gastarbeitera”—the worker who leaves the country to earn a living for his family—reflects the enduring sense of duty to care for others. Whether it’s an invitation for coffee, homemade food, or a place to stay, Serbs are known for their open hearts and generosity.

6. Use of Hands and Body Language

Serbs are expressive and communicate with their entire body. When you’re talking to a Serb, don’t be surprised if they speak with their hands—gesturing dramatically, pointing at things, or miming actions to make a point. Body language is an important part of the Serbian conversational style.

Body language

Whether they’re laughing, making a point, or arguing passionately, the movements of their hands and faces add layers of emotion to the conversation. The facial expressions are equally animated, and it’s not unusual for Serbs to maintain direct eye contact while speaking to someone, reflecting their confidence and openness.

7. Religious Observance and Orthodox Traditions

Religion plays a significant role in the lives of many Serbs, and it often becomes visible through their customs and observances. Serbs are primarily Eastern Orthodox Christians, and their religious practices are deeply woven into their daily routines. Whether they’re attending church services, celebrating Krsna Slava (a celebration of a family’s patron saint), or lighting candles during religious holidays like Christmas and Easter, Serbs embrace their faith with great reverence.

Serbian Christmas Eve celebration and religion abstract

This devotion also extends to specific customs such as the observance of fasts or the consumption of specific foods during religious festivals. When traveling, Serbs often seek out Orthodox churches and monasteries, seeking spiritual connection and solace.

8. The Unmistakable ‘Three-Kiss’ Greeting

In Serbian culture, personal interactions are often accompanied by a unique greeting—the three kisses. Unlike many Western countries where a handshake or hug might be the norm, Serbs typically greet friends, family, and acquaintances with three kisses—one on each cheek and then a final kiss on the other cheek.

This customary greeting is seen as an intimate and affectionate sign of respect and friendship, and it is not limited to close friends but is extended to almost everyone.

9. Unshakable Patriotism

No matter where Serbs live, their love for their homeland never fades. They carry the pride of Serbia in their hearts, constantly expressing their devotion to the country, its people, and its history. While Serbs can adapt to their new environments and integrate into other cultures, there’s always a deep sense of patriotism that stays with them.

They support Serbian businesses, promote Serbian art and culture, and hold close the values and traditions passed down through generations. This loyalty is a defining characteristic, and you’ll often hear a Serb enthusiastically explain the beauty of their country, from the stunning Tara National Park to the Kosovo’s historical significance.

10. A Love for Music and Dancing

Serbs are passionate about music, especially traditional Serbian folk music. The accordion, guitar, and drums often form the core of local music, and it’s common to find Serbs singing and dancing together during social gatherings.

A traditional Serbian circle dance

The kolo (a traditional Serbian circle dance) is a favorite among all generations, often performed at weddings, festivals, and other celebrations. Whether they’re swaying to the rhythm of a folk song or joining in an impromptu dance circle, Serbs love to have a good time and share their joy through music and dance.

The Unmistakable Spirit of a Serb

Serbs around the world share a unique combination of cultural pride, warm hospitality, and strong traditions. Whether you’re meeting a Serb at a café in Belgrade, at a Serbian festival in the United States, or at a Serbian wedding in Sydney, there’s no mistaking their warmth, pride, and lively spirit. From their love for food and drink to their passion for their country’s history, Serbs will always make an impression with their open heart and vibrant personality. If you recognize these traits, it’s likely that you’ve encountered a Serb—wherever in the world they may be.

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