Public Holidays in Bulgaria 2026 – National & Orthodox Holidays
Bulgaria observes a wide range of public holidays that reflect its Orthodox Christian traditions, historical milestones, and rich cultural heritage. These holidays unite communities through religious ceremonies, folk customs, and national celebrations. Many families also use long weekends to explore popular destinations across the country, including those featured in places to visit in Bulgaria or enjoy comfortable stays at the best hotels in Bulgaria.
Overview of Public Holidays in Bulgaria
Public holidays in Bulgaria include national commemorations, Orthodox Christian observances, and cultural celebrations. Major events such as Liberation Day, Easter, and Independence Day are observed nationwide with official ceremonies, parades, and church services. On these days, government offices, schools, and most businesses close across the country.
List of Public Holidays in Bulgaria (2026)
| Holiday | Date (2026) | Day | Significance |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Year’s Day | January 1 | Thursday | Marks the beginning of the new year with celebrations and fireworks across the country. |
| Liberation Day | March 3 | Tuesday | Commemorates Bulgaria’s liberation from Ottoman rule in 1878. |
| Good Friday (Orthodox) | April 10 | Friday | Observed in memory of the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. |
| Holy Saturday | April 11 | Saturday | Part of the Holy Week leading up to Easter Sunday. |
| Orthodox Easter Sunday | April 12 | Sunday | Celebrates the resurrection of Christ; families gather for festive meals. |
| Orthodox Easter Monday | April 13 | Monday | Continuation of Easter celebrations throughout Bulgaria. |
| Labour Day | May 1 | Friday | Honors workers and labor movements. |
| St. George’s Day / Bulgarian Army Day | May 6 | Wednesday | Honors St. George and Bulgaria’s armed forces. |
| Culture and Literacy Day (Saints Cyril and Methodius) | May 24 | Sunday | Celebrates Bulgarian culture, education, and the Cyrillic alphabet. |
| Unification Day | September 6 | Sunday | Commemorates the unification of Bulgaria and Eastern Rumelia in 1885. |
| Independence Day | September 22 | Tuesday | Marks Bulgaria’s independence from Ottoman rule in 1908. |
| National Revival Leaders’ Day | November 1 | Sunday | Honors cultural and literary figures who inspired Bulgaria’s revival. |
| Christmas Eve | December 24 | Thursday | Observed with traditional fasting meals and family gatherings. |
| Christmas Day | December 25 | Friday | Celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ. |
| Second Day of Christmas | December 26 | Saturday | Continuation of Christmas festivities nationwide. |
List of Public Holidays in Bulgaria (2025)
| Holiday | Date (2025) | Day | Significance |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Year’s Day | January 1 | Wednesday | Celebrates the start of the new year with family gatherings and fireworks. |
| Liberation Day | March 3 | Monday | Commemorates Bulgaria’s liberation from Ottoman rule in 1878. |
| Good Friday (Orthodox) | April 18 | Friday | Marks the crucifixion of Jesus Christ in Orthodox tradition. |
| Holy Saturday | April 19 | Saturday | Observed before Easter Sunday in Orthodox Christianity. |
| Orthodox Easter Sunday | April 20 | Sunday | Celebrates the resurrection of Christ. |
| Orthodox Easter Monday | April 21 | Monday | Continuation of Easter celebrations nationwide. |
| Labour Day | May 1 | Thursday | Recognizes the achievements of workers. |
| St. George’s Day / Bulgarian Army Day | May 6 | Tuesday | Honors the Bulgarian Army and its patron saint. |
| Culture and Literacy Day | May 24 | Saturday | Celebrates Bulgarian education and cultural heritage. |
| Unification Day | September 6 | Saturday | Commemorates the unification of Bulgaria and Eastern Rumelia. |
| Independence Day | September 22 | Monday | Marks Bulgaria’s independence from the Ottoman Empire. |
| National Revival Leaders’ Day | November 1 | Saturday | Honors Bulgarian educators, writers, and revolutionaries. |
| Christmas Eve | December 24 | Wednesday | Traditional family meal with fasting foods before Christmas. |
| Christmas Day | December 25 | Thursday | Orthodox celebration of the birth of Christ. |
| Second Day of Christmas | December 26 | Friday | Continuation of Christmas festivities across the country. |
Religious and Cultural Significance
Bulgaria’s public holidays blend Orthodox faith, cultural identity, and national pride. Orthodox Easter stands as one of the country’s most important celebrations, featuring midnight liturgies, festive meals, and traditions such as dyed eggs and kozunak. National holidays such as Liberation Day and Independence Day commemorate defining moments in Bulgarian history. May 24 celebrates the creation of the Cyrillic alphabet and Bulgaria’s contributions to Slavic culture.
Public Observances and Closures
During public holidays, government offices, schools, and banks close. Major cities like Sofia, Plovdiv, and Varna host parades, live performances, and patriotic events. Religious celebrations include church services, family meals, and folk traditions passed down through generations. Many people take advantage of long weekends to travel within Bulgaria or to neighboring countries like Romania, Greece, and Serbia.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How many public holidays does Bulgaria have in 2026?
Bulgaria observes around 15 official public holidays in 2026, including national commemorations and major Orthodox Christian celebrations.
When is Orthodox Easter in Bulgaria in 2026?
Orthodox Easter Sunday in 2026 falls on April 12, with Good Friday on April 10 and Easter Monday on April 13.
What does Bulgaria celebrate on March 3?
On March 3, Bulgaria celebrates Liberation Day, marking its freedom from Ottoman rule in 1878.
Is Christmas a public holiday in Bulgaria?
Yes. Christmas Eve (December 24), Christmas Day (December 25), and the Second Day of Christmas (December 26) are all public holidays in Bulgaria.
Conclusion
Public holidays in Bulgaria reflect a deep connection between Orthodox Christianity, cultural heritage, and national history. From Easter traditions to patriotic celebrations like Liberation Day, these holidays bring Bulgarians together in unity, devotion, and cultural pride.
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