New Year's Day in Bulgaria

New Year's Day in Bulgaria, known as "Нова година" (Nova godina), is celebrated on January 1st, marking the first day of the year on the Gregorian calendar. This day is a public holiday, giving Bulgarians the opportunity to rest and enjoy festivities after the New Year's Eve celebrations.

History and Traditions:

• Survaki: One of the most distinctive Bulgarian traditions for New Year's is "survakane." Children gently tap adults on the back with decorated cornel branches called "survachki," which are believed to bring health, prosperity, and happiness for the year ahead. The children recite traditional poems while doing so and receive small gifts or money in return.

• St. Basil's Day: New Year's Day coincides with St. Basil's Day (Vasilyovden), which adds religious significance to the date for many Bulgarians.

• Kukeri Dances: Although more associated with another festival later in January, some areas might still have Kukeri dancers performing on New Year’s Day. These are men dressed in elaborate costumes designed to scare away evil spirits.

Activities:

• Feasting: Families prepare a lavish meal for New Year’s Day that often includes traditional dishes such as "banitsa" with lucky charms or fortunes baked inside, and "sarmi."

• First-Footer: Similar to other cultures, there is a belief that the first person who enters one’s home after midnight will bring either good or bad luck for the year ahead. This person is often chosen deliberately for their virtue.

• Music and Dancing: Many people continue celebrating with music, dance, and often fireworks throughout New Year’s Day.

• Visiting: It is common to visit friends and family or receive guests at home to exchange good wishes for the new year.

Overall:

New Year’s Day in Bulgaria combines cultural customs and festive cheer as people gather to mark a fresh start filled with hope and anticipation for what the new year may bring.