Last Updated on 26 August 2025 by Johan
Public Holidays in Bulgaria – A Cultural Calendar of National Identity
Bulgaria, located in southeastern Europe, observes a rich variety of public holidays that reflect its history, religious traditions, and cultural heritage. These holidays are celebrated nationwide and often include official ceremonies, family gatherings, and regional customs. Many are tied to Orthodox Christianity, while others commemorate key moments in Bulgaria’s national development.
January 1 – New Year’s Day
The start of the calendar year is marked with celebrations across Bulgaria, including fireworks, festive meals, and traditional music.
February 14 – Trifon Zarezan
This day honors the wine harvest and vine growers. In rural areas, locals perform rituals to bless the vineyards. It’s also considered a celebration of love, often overlapping with Valentine’s Day.
Local Tip: Visit wine-producing regions like Melnik or Plovdiv to experience authentic vineyard ceremonies and tastings.
March 1 – Martenitsa Day
On this day, Bulgarians exchange red-and-white tassels called “Martenitsi,” which symbolize health and happiness. These are worn until the first signs of spring appear.
Local Tip: In Sofia, street vendors sell handmade Martenitsi throughout February. Parks like Borisova Gradina are popular spots to hang them on blossoming trees.
March 3 – Liberation Day
A national holiday commemorating Bulgaria’s liberation from Ottoman rule in 1878. The president traditionally raises the national flag at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Sofia.
Local Tip: Attend the official ceremony in Sofia or visit the Shipka Memorial in Stara Zagora, a key site in the Russo-Turkish War.
Orthodox Easter Monday
Celebrated according to the Orthodox calendar, typically one week after Western Easter. It includes church services, egg-painting, and festive meals.
Local Tip: In Veliko Tarnovo, Easter celebrations include candlelit processions and traditional folk performances.
May 1 – Labor Day
Known locally as “Den na Truda,” this day honors workers and labor movements. It is a public holiday with limited business operations.
May 6 – Day of Courage and the Bulgarian Army (St. George’s Day)
This dual celebration honors military service and the Orthodox feast of St. George. Military parades are held in Sofia, and rural communities celebrate with lamb feasts.
Local Tip: In Koprivshtitsa, traditional music and folk costumes are part of the local festivities.
May 8 – International Women’s Day
Although not a public holiday, many workplaces give women the day off. It’s widely celebrated with flowers and small gifts.
May 24 – Day of Saints Cyril and Methodius
This day celebrates the creators of the Cyrillic alphabet and is dedicated to education, language, and Slavic culture.
Local Tip: In Plovdiv, schools and cultural institutions host parades and public readings.
September 6 – Unification Day
Marks the 1885 unification of Eastern Rumelia with the Principality of Bulgaria. Celebrations include historical reenactments and patriotic speeches.
Local Tip: Plovdiv, the center of the unification movement, hosts commemorative events and exhibitions.
September 22 – Independence Day
Celebrates Bulgaria’s declaration of independence from the Ottoman Empire in 1908. Official ceremonies are held in Veliko Tarnovo, the former capital.
November 1 – National Revival Leaders’ Day
Honors educators, writers, and revolutionaries who contributed to Bulgaria’s cultural and political awakening in the 19th century.
Local Tip: Museums in Ruse and Gabrovo offer special exhibits on national revival figures.
December 24 – Christmas Eve
Families gather for a meatless dinner of traditional dishes, including stuffed peppers and banitsa. The meal often includes an odd number of items for good luck.
December 25 & 26 – Christmas
Celebrated with family meals, gift exchanges, and church services. Orthodox traditions are observed, including caroling and nativity plays.
Local Tip: In Bansko, Christmas markets and snow-covered streets create a festive alpine atmosphere.