The mimosa tree originally comes from Australia and was brought to the Mediterranean coast in the 19th century. It loved the warm, sheltered Adriatic climate and spread along the coast. In Montenegro it grows so abundantly that in February the hillsides above Herceg Novi turn entirely yellow, and the sweet, honey-like scent of the flowers drifts through the streets.
During the Mimosa Festival, floats decorated entirely with yellow flowers parade through the town. Schoolchildren carry bouquets, market stalls sell mimosa honey and mimosa-scented products, and visitors come from all over the region to see the show. The festival is a joyful celebration that winter is ending and spring is on its way - an important feeling in any community.
Giving someone mimosa flowers is a gesture of friendship and warmth in Montenegro. On the first day of the festival, children bring bunches of mimosa to their teachers, and families give them to neighbours and friends. The whole festival is about community, colour and the happiness of the first warm days returning after the grey winter months.