Generally these days are work-free, but some service industries like cafés, bakeries, restaurants and cinemas are open. The religious importance is generally seen as being on the decline.

Following a three-month moratorium from the date of independence, to allow the European Community to solve the Yugoslav crisis peacefully, Parliament adopted a decision on 8 October 1991 to sever constitutional relations with Yugoslavia

The beginning of a new year is celebrated on the night of December 31 to January 1st. Just like in many other countries, there are big New Year’s Eve celebrations and at midnight there are fireworks as a salute to the New Year. January 1st (New Year’s Day – Neujahr) is a national public holiday.

Advent is the four weeks leading up to Christmas. The Latin word "adventus" means "arrival". It refers to the period of preparation for the coming of Jesus on the first day of Christmas. Many families have what is known as an "Adventskranz" ("Advent crown") with 4 candles. A candle is lit on each of the four Sundays of Advent. During Advent, sweet pastries are often eaten and Christmas decorations are put up around the home. An "Adventskalender" ("Advent Calendar") is often made or bought for children. The calendar has 24 windows with small presents or pictures behind each window, for each day from the 1st until the 24th of December, Christmas Eve.

Christian day for honoring saints, known and unknown. A Holy Day of Obligation in the Roman Catholic Church where saints have special formal status. In general, saints are persons with reputation for unusual lives of holiness and devotion to God.

Roman Catholic Christian observance commemorating the belief that the Blessed Virgin Mary was assumed body and soul into heaven at the end of her earthly life

Christian celebration of the arrival of Mary and Joseph in Bethlehem for for the birth of Jesus. It is observed with worship, candle lighting, manger scenes and festive meals

Christian (Roman Catholic) celebration in recognition of the Eucharist - the Blessed Sacrament of the Body and Blood of Christ. The real presence of the body and blood of Jesus is honored

The most holy of Christian sacred days. The day commemorates the resurrection of Jesus Christ from his death by crucifixion. Observances include worship services beginning at sunrise, special music, feasting, and parades

Christian commemoration of the manifestations of the divine nature of Jesus Christ. The homage of the magi to the infant Jesus is honored by some. For others the Baptism of Jesus is the remembered event. A season of the Christian year from the close of Christmas to the beginning of Lent. Advent begins on the fourth Sunday before Christmas.