Christmas in Bulgaria

ERASMUS+

3rd “ A” class 35th school, Sofia Bulgaria

SURVAKANE
ERASMUS+
 On 1st of January we have a special
tradition in Bulgaria, coming from
the ancient times, it’ s connected
with the winter season and the
belief that people should fight the
evil forces of Nature (darkness,
cold, frost, blizzards, drafts,
infertility and others). This ritual is
called SURVAKANE and is
important for the good health and
the prosperity of the family. It was
traditionally performed by young
boys, but nowadays it’ s a privilege
to all children.
 made by Raya
SURVAKNITSA
ERASMUS+
 It is made by a special tree
branch, decorated by woolen
coloured threads, dried fruit,
peppers and popcorn. The
youngest child n the family takes
the Survachka and not too hard
beats on the backs of the older
family members, reciting special
verses with good wishes for
health, wealth and fertility. In
return the children get money
and sweets.
 made by Danaya
KOLEDARI
ERASMUS+
 On Christmas Eve a group of
young men and boys, dressed in
traditional folk costumes, goes
from house to house in the
village and sing songs, praising
and wishing the house and all its
members good health, fertility
and prosperity. Then the head of
the family gives them a special
small bread with a hall in the
middle (called “ gevrec”) and
some coins.
 made by Stella
 ERASMUS+

made by the pupils from 3rd “A” class

35th school “Dobri Voinikov”, Sofia, Bulgaria