In Bulgaria the rituals and customs with pagan roots coexist with the most traditional orthodox Christian holidays. Most holidays are concentrated in the winter months.

Another custom are the spectator “kuker” games – a ritual with roots in the ancient Dionysian fests aimed at frightening and chasing the evil, bringing fertility and wealth. They are organized at the beginning of the year (normally before February) and only men take part therein dressed in attractive suits of furs, with masks and bells.

On February 14, Saint Trifon Zarezan is celebrated, a saint patron of vineyards and wine, successor of the big Thracian cult to Dionysus. It is assumed that if the vineyards are pruned on that day, they shall be protected from diseases during the whole year. On the other hand, the lovers, mainly young people, exchange small presents celebrating Saint Valentine’s day.

March 01 – the celebration of Baba Marta: friends and relatives present to each other “martenitza” – talismans made of white and red threads bringing health, strength and luck. They are worn pinned to the coats and shirts. One should neither throw them away, nor keep them, but as the tradition demands – they should be hung on a tree branch when you see the first stork come flying. “Martenitza” appears in various forms: from the classic two manikins (Pizho and Penda) or two small pompons to bracelets and necklaces.

December 6 is the day of Saint Nicholas, the patron of fishermen and seafarers. Traditional meal is carp stuffed with rice and walnuts.

The Rose Holiday is conducted during the first week of June. Various holiday events are organized, which start early at dawn by picking the delicate flower, when its aroma is filling the air. There follows a visit to rose oil distillery workshop and late in the evening on a crowded celebration “Miss Rose” is elected.

Other interesting events are the folk festivals along the seacoast – in Burgas and Varna – in August, the picturesque “Rozhen Fair”; Paneurhythmy (the annual meeting of “the white brotherhood” – the followers of Bulgarian mystic guru Petar Danov /Beinsa Duno/ from all over the world, which is held in August at the Seven Rila Lakes).