The all-day festival that Krajina Serbs in Chicago have used to herald the arrival of fall with the aroma of roasted chestnuts for 15 years will be held Saturday, October 3, 2026, at the new property of St. John the Baptist Church in Homer Glen.
Organized by the Association of Krajina Serbs “Prelo”, the “Krajina Kestenijada” brings visitors back to the “old country” through traditional food, exhibits of old tools and handicrafts, shepherding contests and sporting competitions.
The program will include soccer and bocce tournaments, while competitions in traditional skills are again expected to draw particular attention. They include stone throwing from the shoulder, standing long jump, stick pulling and tug-of-war — a chance for older generations to remember these traditions and younger generations to discover them.
Registration for the soccer tournament is $250 per team. Professional referees will officiate the tournament, and the winners will receive a $1,000 prize. There is still time to register a team. Registration and additional information are available by calling 708-955-7950.
Visitors will also be able to see an exhibition devoted to part of the Krajina folk tradition, including traditional costumes, handicrafts and old musical instruments. A children’s activity area on the same theme will also be organized.
Visitors and Kestenijada participants will also be able to make monetary donations to a fund supporting doctoral research on the suffering of Serbs in the Krajina regions and Croatia during the 20th century, with particular attention to the tragedies of the 1990s.
Those who enjoy homemade food will once again be able to sample roasted chestnuts, grilled smoked Banija sausage, ćevapi, homemade cakes, crepes and other specialties.
Dijana Antonijević and Stanimir Stošić will provide entertainment for guests and participants in the Krajina Kestenijada.
Text: S. Dančuo Photo: S. Dančuo
