Source: Canva
The Folk Costume Festival in Zheravna
The village of Zheravna, located in the heart of the Balkan Mountains, hosts one of the most remarkable and beloved cultural festivals in Bulgaria - the Festival of Folk Costume. This unique celebration of Bulgarian tradition attracts thousands of participants and guests from the country and abroad, united by their love of Bulgarian folklore and traditions. Over the years, the interest has grown and today it attracts over 25 thousand people.
History of the festival
The Folk Costume Festival in Zheravna was established in 2008 on the initiative of Hristo Dimitrov - the founder of the National Folklore Ensemble "Bulgare". The aim of the festival is to preserve and promote Bulgarian traditions by offering its participants and visitors to immerse themselves in the atmosphere of the past by wearing folk costumes and participating in various folklore activities.
Every year, for three days in August, Zheravna turns into a stage where time seems to stand still. The village fills with people dressed in traditional costumes from all ethnographic regions of Bulgaria (you can read more about the diverse folk costumes HERE). The streets come alive with music, dance and song.
What exactly happens at the festival itself?
Wearing folk costume: Every participant in the festival must be dressed in a traditional Bulgarian costume.
Folk performances: During the festival, many concerts are held with folk ensembles, folk singers and musicians.
Crafts and workshops: In Zheravna during the festival there are many workshops where masters demonstrate traditional Bulgarian crafts, such as weaving, carving, pottery and more. Visitors can join in and test their skills themselves.
Customs and rituals: Part of the festival are reenactments of traditional Bulgarian customs, such as weddings, caroling, lazaring and others.
Bulgarian cuisine: Delicious traditional Bulgarian dishes are prepared at the event.
If you are looking for a way to touch the real Bulgaria, feel the spirit of the ancestors and enjoy a unique folklore atmosphere.
Source: Canva
Reneta, OLS Community Manager – Bulgarian