Bulgarian Holidays for 2026

Official public holiday in Bulgaria.

Special non-working day declared by the government on the occasion of Bulgaria's adoption of the Euro.

Christian holiday that marks the baptism of Jesus Christ in the Jordan River. The priest throws a cross into the water, and men race to retrieve it for health.

A holiday in honor of St. John the Baptist. Traditionally, ritual bathing of young people and newlyweds is performed on this day.

Day of vine growers and winemakers. On this day, vines are pruned for health and a rich harvest.

Holiday marking the last day before Lent when consuming dairy products is allowed. Includes the "hamkane" custom and asking for forgiveness.

Traditional Bulgarian holiday associated with welcoming spring. On this day, we wear martenitsi for health and luck.

National holiday of Bulgaria, commemorating the Liberation from Ottoman rule.

International Labor Day and workers' solidarity.

Day of Bravery and the Bulgarian Army. Also celebrated as a name day for everyone named Georgi, Gergana, and derivatives.

The feast of the holy brothers Cyril and Methodius according to the old style is celebrated on May 11. It honors the creators of the Slavic alphabet and educators.

Day of the holy brothers Cyril and Methodius, of the Bulgarian alphabet, education, and culture.

Holiday in honor of the holy apostles Peter and Paul. In the folk calendar, it is considered the boundary between the spring and summer seasons.

Commemorates the memory of the Holy Prophet Elijah. In folk beliefs, the saint is the master of thunder, rain, and hail.

Marks the Dormition (Falling Asleep) of the Holy Mother of God. One of the biggest Christian holidays in Bulgaria.

Commemorates the unification of the Principality of Bulgaria and Eastern Rumelia in 1885.

Holiday associated with the veneration of the Holy Cross. Marks the beginning of autumn agricultural work.

Commemorates the declaration of independence of Bulgaria in 1908.

Day of St. Petka, patroness of women, family, home, and motherhood. Traditionally, women do not work or wash on this day.

Holiday in honor of St. Demetrius, marking the end of summer and the beginning of winter. Traditionally, seasonal contracts end on this day.

Holiday in honor of Archangel Michael and all heavenly forces. Celebrated as a major family holiday and name day.

Christian holiday celebrating the introduction of the three-year-old Virgin Mary into the Jerusalem Temple.

Day of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker, patron of sailors, fishermen, and merchants. Traditionally, a fish dish with carp is prepared on this day.

The evening before Christmas Day. Traditionally, a Lenten feast with an odd number of dishes is prepared.

Christmas Day. A family holiday with a rich feast and traditional Christmas food.

Holiday in honor of Saint Stephen, the first Christian martyr. Celebrated on the third day of Christmas.