Serbian “POKLADE” is folk custom that is captured and perceived to present day. Poklade is held in the last Sunday before the Easter Lent. During that day, all young and old are dressed in animal attire to frighten the spirits of household thresholds of all who live in the local community. In addition to games, songs, jumps trough the fire, drinks and fatty/greasy foods, people are preparing for upcoming lent: a special time of prayer, penance, and sacrifice, time of calm, well-being and good works that lasts 40 days until the Easter. On the same occasion, the youth coated in animal clothing with ritual masks in addition to expelling demons from neighborly yards, collect the eggs that will be specially colored for the Easter.
Author : Julija Basic
