The 1990s were a transformative decade in North Macedonia, and celebrating the New Year during this time was a special experience. And different. It was a bland of tradition, simplicity, and the joy of welcoming a brighter future in a rapidly changing world.
In the 90s, North Macedonians celebrated New Year's Eve (“Нова Година” – Nova Godina) with close family and friends. The streets of cities like Skopje, Bitola, and Ohrid lit up with festive decorations, albeit simpler than today's dazzling lights. Holiday markets offered traditional sweets, hand-knitted gifts, and colorful ornaments.
The centerpiece of every celebration was the New Year's tree, called a новогодишна елка, a must-have in every home. Families would gather to decorate it with ornaments, some handmade, and garlands that often included strings of popcorn or dried fruits—a nod to older traditions.
The New Year’s Eve table was a feast of Macedonian flavors. Dishes like sarma (cabbage rolls), roasted meat, and ajvar (pepper spread) took center stage. A popular dessert was baklava or homemade cookies passed down through generations.
At midnight, the sounds of clinking glasses and cheerful toasts echoed through homes. People exchanged wishes like:
- „Среќна Нова Година!“ (Happy New Year!)
- „Среќа, здравје, и успех!“ (Wishing you happiness, health, and success!)
- „Нека ни е бериќетна!“ (May it be prosperous!)
Children were especially excited about Дедо Мраз (Santa Claus), who brought gifts and added magic to the celebrations. A family member would ring the door and hide away, other claiming it was Santa Claus who left the gifts in front of the door. We were just wondering why he didn't stop by to say hi. Well, "he was in a hurry"!
The 90s were a time when resources were limited, but the spirit of the holiday shone brightly. It was less about material gifts and more about togetherness, hope, and new beginnings.
As the clock struck midnight, fireworks lit up the skies, and people embraced with the hope that the coming year would bring peace and prosperity to their loved ones.
Среќна Нова Година! Let’s welcome the New Year with the same simplicity and joy.
Denica, OLS Community Manager - Macedonian