Spring Dawn – Čimburijada of Zenica
The Čimburijada of Zenica is a traditional event celebrated every year on 21 March in Zenica to mark the arrival of the first day of spring. Symbolically, the celebration involves a spontaneous gathering of citizens in a natural setting along the banks of Zenica’s rivers, in the company of family, friends and guests.
The central point of the event is the preparation of the first spring meal – the Čimburijada of Zenica. This dish is prepared of eggs, with the addition of nettles, spring onions or other young shoots of the spring.
History and tradition
The tradition of celebrating the first day of spring in Zenica goes back a long way. The first documented examples of this practice date back to the early 1930s. The spring celebration begins with dawn, while socialising continues throughout the day, with thousands of visitors of all ages.
Events and activities
The celebration includes various activities, ncluding:
• Preparation of the first spring meal (čimbur) made of 1500 eggs and competition in the meal preparation,
• First spring swimming in the Bosna River,
• Eco Regatta on the Bosna River,
• Various cultural and entertainment events, exhibitions and promotional activities of non-governmental organisations,
• Events for children in preschools and primary schools,
• The mascot called Čimburko, animating the visitors.
The event is held in a cheerful atmosphere, its programme being adapted to all generations, which further emphasizes its importance as a cohesive custom for citizens of all nations, religions and ages.
Organization and significance
In recent decades, the Čimburijada of Zenica has been organised by the Zenica Citizens’ Forum with support of the local community. This manifestation is also recognised on a global level – the renowned weather forecast website AccuWeather included Bosnia and Herzegovina with the Čimburijada of Zenica, among the ten best manifestations of spring in the world.
Today, the Čimburijada of Zenica is a symbol of unity and joy, celebrating the awakening of nature and the arrival of spring in a unique way.
