the badnjak veseljak is a tree branch or entire tree that is central to serbian christmas celebrations. it is placed on

austrian badnjak balkans beech branch broom brown burning celebration ceremonia christmas church day decorate entire eve fagaceae felling gift happiness illuminated leaves log love luck oak orthodoxy prayer preparation pronunciation protection quercus religion religious rich ritual sak serbian superstition symbol talisman tied tradition traditions tree veseljak worshiper wreath