#folklore
The Shevitsa: Bulgaria's Embroidered Language of Colour and Symbol
Discover the rich symbolism and regional variety of the shevitsa, the traditional embroidery that decorates Bulgarian folk costumes, and learn how these patterns tell stories of identity, protection and belonging.
A Guide to Bulgarian Superstitions: From Red Threads to Knocking on Wood
Discover the everyday beliefs that shape Bulgarian life, from protective red threads to avoiding black cats, and how to embrace them respectfully.
Lazaruvane: Bulgaria's Spring Ritual of Song, Flowers and Coming of Age
Every spring, Bulgarian villages come alive with the sound of girls singing from house to house. Lazaruvane is a centuries-old tradition that marks renewal, health and the passage into womanhood.
Sedyanka: Bulgaria's Evening Gathering of Song, Work and Courtship
A look at the sedyanka, Bulgaria's traditional evening gathering where villagers came together to work, sing, dance and find love, and how it lives on today.
The Tapan: Bulgaria's Thundering Folk Drum
From wedding horos to village festivals, the deep rolling beat of the tapan drives Bulgaria's folk music. Here's how to recognise it and why it matters.
Bulgarian Wedding Traditions: A Guide to the Rituals and Symbols
From the breaking of bread to the pinning of money, Bulgarian weddings are rich in rituals that celebrate family, fertility and good fortune.
Koprivshtitsa: Bulgaria's Grand Festival of Folklore
Every five years, the historic town of Koprivshtitsa hosts one of Bulgaria's most spectacular celebrations of traditional music, dance and costume.
Enyovden: Bulgaria's Midsummer Celebration of Herbs and Healing
Every June, Bulgarians gather wild herbs and flowers with the belief that they hold special healing powers on the day of Enyovden. Learn about the rituals, legends, and how to take part.
Nestinarstvo: the fire-dancing tradition of Bulgaria's Strandzha villages
In a few villages in the Strandzha mountains, an old ritual of dancing on embers is tied to Saints Constantine and Helena. Here is what it is and why it matters.
Martenitsa: the red and white threads Bulgarians wear every March
Every year on 1 March, Bulgarians exchange small red and white charms called martenitsi. Here is what they mean, how they are worn and when they come off.
Kukeri: the masked winter rituals that wake Bulgaria's villages
Every winter, men in towering masks and heavy bells parade through Bulgarian villages to drive away evil spirits. Here is what the kukeri tradition means and how to see it.