THE COST OF SLAVA FEASTS RISES THIS YEAR

As the season of krsna slava — the traditional Serbian family patron saint celebration — approaches, many households across Republika Srpska are busy preparing guest lists, menus, and budgets. While the holiday symbolizes joy, faith, and togetherness, for some it has also become a financial concern, as consumer rights advocates report that certain food prices have increased by as much as 40 percent compared to last year.

PHOTO: InfoBijeljina

Despite the rising costs, believers say they will not give up on celebrating this cherished custom. For them, slava remains a vital part of family identity and tradition — one that no price increase can extinguish.

Zlaja K. from Laktaši, who celebrates Aranđelovdan with his family, told Glas Srpske that preparations are already underway.

“We have many guests, and we spend up to 2,000 KM for the celebration. Beyond the financial side, organizing a slava takes a lot of time and effort — from fermenting cabbage to ordering the traditional slavski kolač weeks in advance. The most important things are the bread, candle, and wheat,” he said.

Milka Muždeka from Šipovo added that even a posna (fasting) menu is no cheaper than a traditional one.

“It takes around 1,500 KM to prepare everything properly. Thankfully, my daughters help me, otherwise it would be too much for one person,” she explained.

Local businesses confirm that food prices have risen slightly. From the “Carstvo” roastery in Banja Luka, they noted that pork prices are currently around 30 KM per kilogram in retail, while those purchasing a whole pig pay 6 KM per kilogram live weight, plus a roasting fee.

“The demand is calm for now, but as slava and Christmas holidays approach, we expect more orders,” they said.

Aleksa Ristić from the “Ristić” slaughterhouse and roastery in Bijeljina added that smaller pigs up to 20 kilograms cost around 5.5 KM per kilogram, while larger ones range between 4.5 and 5 KM, depending on size.

“Orders are already coming in as each slava date nears,” Ristić said.

Sweets have also become a luxury item. A Banja Luka pastry chef, who preferred to remain anonymous, said prices for small cakes range from 27 to 35 KM per kilogram, roughly the same as last year.

“As Aranđelovdan approaches, all my slots are booked, and I’ve already started receiving orders for Nikoljdan. Most families order up to 10 kilograms,” she said.

Another local baker, Ranka M., noted that while orders for fancy cakes have decreased, there is still strong demand for traditional slavski kolač (festive bread).

“Now most people order only the bread, since ingredients for sweets are too expensive. Prices range from 20 to 30 KM, depending on size and decoration. I focus on craftsmanship and detail, so my prices reflect that,” she said.

According to Snežana Šešlija, president of the citizens’ association ToPeeR in Doboj, maintaining slava customs is becoming increasingly difficult.

“What should be on the table now costs 20 to 40 percent more. Even when families invite fewer guests, the savings are minimal. What should be a joyful celebration has become a burden for many households,” she said.

Šešlija pointed out that pensioners are hit the hardest, with some even taking out small loans to cover the costs.

“Many retirees can’t manage the expenses from their pensions. Some borrow several hundred marks just to celebrate properly,” she added, noting that the cost difference between fasting and non-fasting meals has practically disappeared.

Fish sellers are also seeing early interest. From the “Ihtis” fish market in Banja Luka, they reported that customers are already inquiring about prices.

“The most popular choices are carp, trout, and hake. Hake costs 8.5 KM per kilogram, while carp and cleaned Californian trout are 13 KM. Trout remains the top pick,” they said.

As the slava season draws near, one thing is certain — despite rising prices, the spirit of tradition and family unity continues to shine at the heart of every celebration.