Vertep (Serbian) facts for kids

The Vertep is a special Serbian Orthodox Christmas custom. It is often done by young boys and men who are part of the Serbian Orthodox Church. This tradition usually happens on January 6th. This date is Christmas Eve for people who follow the Orthodox calendar. The custom itself is called Vertep. The people who take part in it are called vertepaši (say: ver-TEP-ah-shee).

The word Vertep comes from an old language called Church Slavonic. In that language, the word means "cave". This refers to the cave where Jesus was born.

What is the Vertep Custom?

The Vertep is a fun and important part of Christmas celebrations in Serbia. It is a way for young people to share the joy of Christmas. While the exact details can vary, it often involves groups of vertepaši visiting homes. They might sing special songs or perform short plays. These plays usually tell the story of Jesus's birth. It is a way to spread the Christmas spirit in the community.

When is Vertep Celebrated?

The Vertep custom takes place on January 6th. This day is known as Christmas Eve in the Orthodox calendar. Many Orthodox Christians celebrate Christmas on January 7th. This is because they follow a different calendar system than some other Christian groups. Celebrating on Christmas Eve helps prepare everyone for the main Christmas day.

Where Does the Name Come From?

The name Vertep has a special meaning. It comes from the old Church Slavonic language. In this language, "vertep" means "cave". This is a direct link to the story of Christmas. The Bible says that Jesus was born in a stable, which was often a cave in ancient times. So, the name of the custom reminds everyone of the very first Christmas night.

See also

• Vertep theatre, a similar custom among East Slavic groups