When is Victory Day?
In 2026, Victory Day falls on Saturday, May 9, 2026. It is an observance rather than a federal holiday, so federal offices and most businesses follow their normal schedules.
History of Victory Day
Victory Day on May 9 marks the end of the Second World War in Europe and honours the defeat of Nazi Germany in 1945. For Serbia, the date also speaks to the occupation, resistance and immense civilian suffering that shaped the country’s wartime experience.
It is a working-day observance rather than a statutory public closure. State institutions, veterans’ organisations and memorial sites use ceremonies and educational programmes to connect the European victory with the local histories of those who fought, suffered and rebuilt.
Victory Day is a state holiday in the commemorative sense but is expressly celebrated while work continues. May 9 consequently does not close offices nationwide and receives no substitute day when it falls on Sunday. Serbia’s statutory distinction is important because public ceremonies and official participation can otherwise make the date look like a conventional day off. The anniversary also coincides with Europe Day, but this guide’s subject is victory over fascism and Serbia’s Second World War remembrance.
How Victory Day is observed
A national observance on May 9, not a general non-working day. Memorial and veterans’ events may be scheduled locally.
Traditions of Victory Day
Wreath-laying
Government representatives, diplomats and veterans’ groups lay wreaths at Serbian memorials to wartime resistance fighters, soldiers and civilian victims.
History and peace education
Schools, museums and broadcasters connect victory over fascism with Serbia’s occupation history, enormous losses and the responsibilities of remembrance.
Military and cultural programmes
Concerts, exhibitions or veterans’ events may accompany Serbia’s working observance without creating a nationwide public-service or business closure.
Dates and observance rules are checked against the official Serbian government holiday guidance. Religious leave, school calendars and private-employer schedules may differ from the general public-holiday calendar.
History sources: Ministry of Labour: state and religious holidays of Serbia, Ministry of Foreign Affairs: public and other holidays in Serbia, National Bank of Serbia: annual non-working days and commemorations.
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