Discover Bulgarian Christmas Traditions: A Living Heritage
When I was little, I loved the holiday season. Or rather, I loved New Year’s celebrations. In Russia, New Year is the family holiday. Christmas, on the other hand, is celebrated on January 7 according to the Russian calendar and is a much smaller event. I spent my school holidays in Moscow, so I didn’t even know it was possible to have a big Christmas celebration. That changed when I became a teenager, and we started celebrating our first Christmases in Bulgaria on December 25.
Table of Contents
I discovered that Christmas in Bulgaria is more than just a simple holiday. It is a time of joy, of traditionsfamily reunions and unity. We play the big game, we eat a lot and we think of our traditions. I always get a little bit nostalgic during this time of the year...
When Is Christmas Celebrated in Bulgaria?
The answer to this question isn’t as straightforward as you might think. In Bulgaria, Christmas is celebrated on December 25. This may surprise some, as most Orthodox churches follow the Julian calendar. However, since 1968, Bulgaria has officially celebrated Christmas on December 25, shifting from the traditional date of January 7.
Historically, the Bulgarian Orthodox Church, like other branches ofOrthodoxy,followed the Julian calendar, which was in use at the time of Christ’s birth. Bulgarians used the Julian calendar for over 1,600 years, but it gradually fell out of sync with the solar year. This discrepancy led to a progressive misalignment between religious dates and seasonal events.
The gap between the Julian and Gregorian calendars grew over time. As a result, while Christmas was celebrated on December 25 according to the Julian calendar, this date corresponded to January 7 in the Gregorian calendar, which most Western countries use. This explains why many Orthodox churches celebrate Christmas after January 1, unlike theWesternChristian tradition of December 25.
Christmas Eve: A Traditional and Symbolic Dinner
The Christmas Eve dinner, known as “Badni Vecher,” is one of the most anticipated events of the year in Bulgaria. This meal, rich in symbolism, takes place on December 24, the night before Christmas. Unlike in other countries where Santa Claus arrives that evening, in Bulgaria, the focus is on spiritual preparation.
Tradition dictates that the dinner is vegetarian, honouring the fasting period before Christmas. It includes several specific dishes, such as banitsa(a type of pastry), stuffed vegetables, beans, nuts, honey, and dried fruits. A particularly symbolic dish is vegetable soup, representing family unity and harmony.
There must be an odd number of dishes on the Christmas Eve table—7, 9, or 11. The reasoning behind these numbers varies: some say they are sacred numbers, others relate 7 to the days of the week, 9 to the months of pregnancy, and 11 to the months before December. Personally, I like to think Bulgarians chose these numbers to showcase their home’s abundance without spending too much time in the kitchen.
Additionally, a candle is lit at the center of the table to bring light and warmth into the home during winter.
What makes this tradition truly unique is the act of offering a piece of bread, called « kolac »to each family member. Inside the bread is a coin, and whoever finds it is said to have a prosperous year ahead. It’s also common to burn an oak log overnight, symbolizing purification and warding off negative energies.
Christmas Mass: A Solemn and Spiritual Celebration
In Bulgaria, the Christmas Mass held in Orthodox churches is an intense experience filled with spirituality and reverence. On the morning of December 25, Bulgarians attend church to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. The Mass features sacred hymns, prayers, and ancient rituals emphasizing the importance of Christian faith in the country.
The churches are adorned with flowers and candles, creating an atmosphere of light and peace. For Orthodox Christians, this Mass holds great significance, seen as a sacred moment to come together, celebrate Christ’s birth, and reaffirm their faith.
Santa Claus in Bulgaria: A Unique Local Legend
As with many things in Bulgaria, there’s no consensus on who brings the Christmas gifts...
Traditionally, Bulgaria has its own version of Santa Claus, known as Diado Mraz (Grandpa Frost). He arrives on New Year’s Eve to deliver gifts to children (and adults, if they’ve been good).
However, Western influence has introduced a second tradition: Diado Koleda (Grandpa Christmas), equivalent to the Santa Claus we know in Western countries. Diado Koleda comes on Christmas Eve, December 24.
Unlike the traditional Santa Claus, Diado Mraz isn’t always associated with a sleigh pulled by reindeer. In Bulgaria, he is often depicted as an elderly man with a white beard, wearing a long red leather coat.
The tradition of Diado Mraz sometimes blends with that of the Western Santa Claus, but the Bulgarian version retains its distinctive character, reflecting the country’s unique history and culture. To be honest, as long as we get presents at Christmas and New Year’s, we’re happy to mix traditions.
"Koledari" – The Christmas Carolers of Bulgaria
L’une des traditions les plus fascinantes de Noël en Bulgarie est celle des KoledariOne of the most fascinating Bulgarian Christmas traditions is that of the Koledari, or Christmas carolers. This custom dates back centuries and remains alive, particularly in rural areas. The Koledari embody the festive and communal spirit of Christmas while celebrating Christ’s birth through songs, dances, and blessings.
Who Are the Koledari?
The Koledari are typically groups of young men, sometimes accompanied by boys, who dress up and roam villages during Christmas festivities. Traditionally, unmarried men are chosen for this ritual, symbolizing purity and innocence. Musicians often join the singers. Their songs and dances carry deep symbolic meanings, bringing blessings to homes, families, and crops for the coming year.
Songs and Dances
The Koledari sing Christmas carols that are hymns celebrating Christ’s birth. These songs are deeply rooted in Orthodox Christian traditions and often recount the Nativity story. Polyphonic singing, characteristic of the Balkan region, accompanies the lyrics.
In addition to singing, the Koledari perform traditional dances, often in a circle. These dances are filled with energy and symbolic gestures, aiming to bring prosperity, health, and good fortune to the families they visit. Their visits are moments of joy and excitement for the villagers, who welcome them with gifts like cakes, fruits, or drinks.
The Spiritual Significance of the Koledari
Beyond being a festive custom, the Koledari carry profound spiritual and communal significance. These groups bring divine blessings and protection against negative forces from the past year. The ritual ensures a fertile and prosperous year while safeguarding families from illnesses and misfortunes.
The carols often include wishes for happiness, prosperity, abundant harvests, and peace within the family. The Koledari’s blessings are considered sacred acts that strengthen community unity and bonds across generations.
A Ritual in Decline?
Unfortunately, like many ancient traditions, the Koledari custom is in decline, especially in urban areas. However, in villages and rural communities, the tradition remains vibrant. Some regions have even preserved it through festivals and cultural performances.
Efforts are being made to teach younger generations the Koledari songs and dances. Many local singing groups organize events showcasing Koledari performances in traditional costumes, reminding young Bulgarians of this cultural heritage’s importance.
The Koledari represent more than a festive tradition. They embody a profound sense of belonging, faith, and hope for the future. Through their songs and blessings, the Koledari symbolize the light of Christmas, bringing joy and prosperity to those they visit. If you ever get the chance to visit a Bulgarian village during the holidays, don’t miss the opportunity to experience this unique tradition. You’ll feel the true spirit of Bulgarian Christmas in all its splendor.
Noël en Bulgarie, un voyage au cœur de la tradition
Christmas in Bulgaria is a journey into the heart of traditions and mystical legends. Every custom, every celebration, and every story shared around the table reflects the deep soul of the country. In 2025, Bulgaria invites you to discover its traditions and experience unique moments. Whether you’re singing Koleda carols, sharing a festive meal with family, or listening to Christmas legends, you’ll find a different way to celebrate this universal holiday in this enchanting country.
If you’re looking for an original Christmas experience, far from the usual clichés, Bulgaria will captivate you with its authentic traditions and warm family spirit.
To learn more
To learn more about me: My travel planning services
Want to discover Strasbourg? : Download my free guide
Need more ? : Take a look at my travel blog