In this article, we offer you 12 great festivals and holidays to visit in the new year 2025.
January: International Festival of Masquerade Games “Surva”
When: January 24-26, 2025
Where: Pernik
Description:
The Surva Festival is a true celebration for lovers of authentic folklore. Kuker and Survakar groups from all over Bulgaria and abroad gather in Pernik to show unique masks and costumes made of natural materials. The sound of the clappers and the rhythm of the dances create a magical atmosphere. For visitors there is also a market of handicrafts and culinary delights. This is an event that attracts thousands of people from the country and abroad.
February: Bacon and mulled brandy festival
When: February 15-16, 2025
Where: Apriltsi
Description:
A culinary celebration that combines delicious traditional food and hot drinks. Local craftsmen present recipes for making bacon and brandy, and visitors can try dishes such as beans with smoked bacon, homemade breads and sweet desserts. The event is accompanied by a folklore program and demonstrations of local crafts.
March: Martenitsa Festival at the Ethnographic Open-Air Museum “Etar”
When: March 1-3, 2025
Where: Gabrovo (Etar Open-Air Ethnographic Museum)
Description:
The festival of the martenitsa is dedicated to the traditional Bulgarian symbol of health and fertility. Visitors can learn more about the history and symbolism of the martenitsa, participate in workshops on making hand-knitted martenitsa, and view exhibitions of martenitsa from different regions of Bulgaria. Folklore performances, traditional food, and the atmosphere of “Etar” contribute to the special experience.
April: Samokov Feast Festival and the Biggest Easter Dance
When: April 17, 2025
Where: Samokov
Description:
The holiday is dedicated to the unique Samokov cuisine and the traditions surrounding Easter. Local chefs prepare delicious dishes that visitors can try while enjoying folk music. At the end of the day, the largest Easter dance is organized, uniting locals and guests in one rhythm.
May: National Sheep Breeders' Festival in Bulgaria
When: May 30, 31 and June 1, 2025
Where: Near the Peter and Paul Monastery to Lyaskovets
Description:
This event is not only a celebration for sheep farmers, but also for all lovers of Bulgarian traditions. The festival includes demonstrations of old crafts, exhibitions of domestic animals, folklore concerts and tastings of dairy products. Particularly impressive are the competitions in milking and sheep shearing.
June: Rose Festival
When: First week of June 2025
Where: Kazanlak
Description:
The Rose Festival is dedicated to the symbol of Bulgaria – the oil-bearing rose. Mornings begin with the traditional rose picking, and during the day there are processions, competitions and cultural programs. Visitors can enjoy aromatic rose oil products, cosmetics and souvenirs.
July: International Festival of Authentic Folklore in Dorkovo
When: The last weekend of July 2025.
Where: Dorkovo
Description:
The festival is a unique platform for presenting authentic folklore from different parts of Bulgaria and abroad. Participants demonstrate traditional songs, dances, costumes and customs preserved through generations. The event is a true celebration for lovers of Bulgarian culture and traditions.
August: The Beglika Generation
When: August 7-10, 2025
Where: Golyam Beglik Dam
Description:
After two years of creative silence, one of the most cohesive festivals returns with its 15th anniversary edition under the title “The Beglika Generation”. This year, the main focus of the event is the Bulgarian family and the restoration of harmony within it. The Solaria Forum will address key issues of family health, balance in relationships and other important topics for future generations, and 5% of the ticket price will be invested in the creation of a national community network in support of this mission. The Orpheika project will also be presented – a music label for classical Rhodope folklore and modern ethno folk. The program, which is constantly being enriched, includes music, performing and visual arts, educational initiatives, social projects and many games. Details about participation, volunteering and accommodation are available on the website of The Beglika Generation.
September: Fig Festival
When: September 19, 2025
Where: Vetren dol
Description:
Dedicated to one of the most precious fruits, the festival offers culinary demonstrations, tastings of jams, compotes and dried figs. Music, dances and handmade crafts complete the festive atmosphere.
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October: Pumpkin Festival
When: October 10, 2025
Where: Sevlievo
Description:
The Pumpkin Festival is a fun celebration featuring pumpkin carving contests, pumpkin cooking demonstrations, and family-friendly fun. The city is decorated with jack-o'-lanterns and attractions.
November: Deer Leg Festival
When: November 15-17, 2025
Where: Elena
Description:
The festival is dedicated to one of the most famous local delicacies – deer ham. Visitors can learn more about its production, taste dishes and participate in culinary workshops. The atmosphere is complemented by music and dancing.
December: Christmas markets
When: The entire month of December 2025
Where: Sofia, Plovdiv, Varna and other cities
Description:
Christmas markets offer a magical atmosphere with lights, decorated trees and Christmas carols. Visitors can purchase handmade gifts, sample traditional holiday foods and drinks such as mulled wine and gingerbread, and immerse themselves in the holiday spirit.
Bulgaria is a country rich in traditions, culture and holidays that turn every year into a colorful journey of experiences. Whether you are a fan of folklore, cuisine, music or nature, festivals and events offer something for every taste. They not only preserve the spirit of the past, but also create unique moments that unite people of all ages and corners of the world. Plan your trips and discover the magic of Bulgarian traditions, because every event tells a story – a story worth experiencing!
