Eastern Europe is a region rich in history and tradition, especially when it comes to celebrating holidays. From the enchanting Christmas markets of Poland to the vibrant Easter rituals in Romania, each country offers unique and fascinating customs.
These celebrations are a blend of ancient traditions and modern festivities, reflecting the cultural diversity and communal spirit of the region.
Join us as we explore the most beloved holidays in Eastern Europe and discover the warmth and joy they bring to people’s lives.
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Table of Contents
Bulgaria
New Year's Day (January 1)
New Year’s Day marks the beginning of the new year in Bulgaria, a time for celebration, fireworks, and festive gatherings. Families come together to celebrate, making toasts for good health, happiness, and prosperity in the year ahead.
Liberation Day (3rd March)
Liberation Day is a national holiday commemorating Bulgaria’s liberation from Ottoman rule in 1878. Celebrations include parades, official ceremonies, and speeches, especially in Sofia, where the president and national leaders pay tribute to Bulgaria’s history of independence.
Liberation Day Holiday (4th March)
The day following Liberation Day is an additional holiday, providing Bulgarians with more time to celebrate and reflect on their country’s freedom. Many people take advantage of this extended holiday for family time or travel.
Labour Day (1st May)
Labour Day in Bulgaria honors workers and their contributions to society. It is a day of rest for most Bulgarians, marked with parades, outdoor events, and often political demonstrations advocating for workers’ rights and social justice.
Orthodox Good Friday (3rd May)
Orthodox Good Friday is a solemn day in Bulgaria, marking the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. It is a day of fasting, church services, and reflection for Orthodox Christians, with many attending special religious ceremonies.
Orthodox Easter Saturday (4th May)
The Saturday before Orthodox Easter is a day of preparation for the Easter celebrations. Many Bulgarians attend church services and prepare traditional foods, such as painted eggs and sweet bread, in anticipation of the Easter feast.
Orthodox Easter Sunday (5th May)
Orthodox Easter is one of the most important religious holidays in Bulgaria, celebrating the resurrection of Jesus Christ. It is marked with church services, family meals, and the traditional cracking of red-painted eggs as a symbol of new life.
Orthodox Easter Monday (6th May)
The day following Orthodox Easter is a public holiday in Bulgaria, giving people more time to enjoy the festivities with their families. Many continue to celebrate with family gatherings, feasting, and outdoor activities.
Saint George's Day / Army Day (6th May)
Saint George’s Day, also known as Army Day, is both a religious and national holiday. Saint George is honored as a patron saint of soldiers, and Bulgaria’s armed forces are celebrated with parades and military displays across the country.
Culture and Literacy Day (24th May)
Culture and Literacy Day, also known as Saints Cyril and Methodius Day, celebrates Bulgaria’s cultural and literary achievements. It honors the two brothers who created the Cyrillic alphabet, which is still used in the country. Schools and cultural institutions hold events to mark the day.
Unification Day (6th September)
Unification Day celebrates the 1885 unification of Eastern Rumelia and the Principality of Bulgaria. It is a patriotic holiday marked by official ceremonies, parades, and cultural events to honor this important event in Bulgaria’s history.
Independence Day (22nd September)
Independence Day celebrates Bulgaria’s declaration of independence from the Ottoman Empire in 1908. It is marked with festive events, military parades, and speeches reflecting on Bulgaria’s journey to full sovereignty.
Independence Day Holiday (23rd September)
The day following Independence Day is also a holiday, allowing Bulgarians additional time to celebrate and reflect on their national identity. Many use this day for family time or travel.
Day of the Bulgarian Enlighteners (1st November)
This holiday honors Bulgaria’s educators, writers, and cultural leaders who have contributed to the preservation and development of the country’s national identity. Events are held in schools and cultural institutions to recognize their efforts.
Christmas Eve (24th December)
Christmas Eve is a major religious holiday in Bulgaria, filled with preparation for the Christmas feast. Many families observe the tradition of a meatless dinner, followed by attending midnight mass to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ.
Christmas Day (25th December)
Christmas Day in Bulgaria is celebrated with family gatherings, festive meals, and the exchange of gifts. The holiday is deeply rooted in religious traditions, with many attending church services and spending the day with loved ones.
2nd Day of Christmas (26th December)
The second day of Christmas is a public holiday, allowing Bulgarians to continue their celebrations. Families often spend time visiting relatives, enjoying festive meals, and participating in outdoor activities.
How to work with Bulgaria’s nation Holidays as an American Employer
As an American employer working with Bulgarian employees, it is important to be aware of the country’s mix of religious and national holidays. Orthodox Christian holidays such as Easter and Christmas are significant, and employees may require time off during these periods for religious observances and family celebrations. Additionally, Bulgaria’s national holidays like Liberation Day, Unification Day, and Independence Day are patriotic celebrations that may affect work schedules.
