sarbatori

Sărbători is the Romanian term for holidays or festive occasions. The concept covers religious observances in the Romanian Orthodox calendar as well as secular or civic celebrations. Sărbători are celebrated by Romanians in Romania and Moldova, as well as by Romanian-speaking communities abroad. They are marked on fixed dates or according to liturgical calendars and are often associated with rituals, meals, gift exchanges, and public or private ceremonies.

Religious holidays include major Christian feasts such as Crăciun (Christmas), Paște (Easter), Bobotează (Epiphany), and Rusalii (Pentecost), along with various saints’ days. Secular and national holidays include Ziua Națională a României (1 December), Anul Nou (New Year’s Day), and traditional spring celebrations such as Mărțișor (1 March). Some observances combine religious and cultural elements, particularly in rural areas.

Practices vary regionally but commonly involve family gatherings, church attendance, and special foods. Christmas celebrations feature carols (colinde), decorated homes, and dishes like cozonac and sarmale; Easter traditions include egg coloring and festive meals. Across many sărbători, visits to relatives, gift-giving, and public events such as concerts or fairs reinforce social ties and cultural identity.