The Bulgarian holidays in tradition and rituals are an amazing blend of the inherited Thracian, Pagan, Old Bulgarian and Christian customs. So, does it sound unbelievable that we have 145 festive rituals in our calendar and more that 40 kinds of special rite bread. It will be difficult to celebrate all of the holy days, but at least two groups of festivities – the winter and spring ones, deserve our attention. Those days are celebrated in many other countries, but we are sure that here you will find their magic unique.
We offer to our guests to share with us the excitement and the enchantment of the Winter and Spring traditional festivities.

The glowing snow, the coziness of the ancient houses, the blazing fire in the fireplaces, the ruby of the new wine and the sweet smell of home baked bread – that is just a fragment of the “scene” on which the everlasting play of meeting the new beginning will be performed. For centuries the Bulgarian New year used to be celebrated from December 20th to January 6th next year. We offer to you a fragment of this lasting feast every day of which will be full of festive activities and rituals.

Highlights:

• Getting to know the authentic wealth of events and rituals
• Participating in all activities for preparing and performing the traditional customs, baking the ritual breads, cooking the special meals.

Necessary materials:

• All of the materials necessary for the preparation of the holidays will be provided

Initial skill in painting:

• Not required

Accommodation:

• In double rooms at guest houses which are cultural land marks in the villages of Koprivshtitsa, Melnik

Options:

• Trips to historical and cultural sites, hikes, painting/drawing
• Visiting monasteries and churches rich in icon treasures
• Extend the program with 5 days to welcome the New year. Visit some places where the rituals Koleduvane and Mummers are performed

For detailed itinerary