Sarajevo works year-round, though the experience changes considerably with the seasons. Spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October) are the most pleasant — mild temperatures, long days, and the city at its most active without the summer crowds. The Baščaršija Nights festival (July–August) fills the old town with outdoor performances, concerts, and street events.
Winter brings heavy snow to the surrounding hills and a cold, misty character to the city. The Sarajevo Film Festival in August is the biggest cultural event on the calendar and draws international guests; accommodation books up weeks in advance. The city holds sobering commemorations of the siege and the war on significant dates — 5 April (the beginning of the siege) and 11 July (the anniversary of Srebrenica) — which are worth being aware of when planning.