Holidays in Bulgaria - Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Bulgaria

On March 25, the Bulgarian Orthodox Church celebrates the bright holiday of the Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin Mary They celebrate the coming of the Good News in Bulgaria, while at the same time welcoming the arrival of spring and warmth The plot that formed the basis of the Feast of the Annunciation is described by the Evangelist Luke In Nazareth, the Archangel Gabriel appeared at the house of the Virgin Mary The messenger brought the good news to the girl about her election as the mother of the Savior of mankind The Archangel talks about the birth of the baby from the Holy Spirit, and about his future greatness, which has no limits Mary was embarrassed by Gabriel’s words, but she humbly accepted the message sent to her and the Divine will This holiday has been established in Orthodoxy since the 4th century, and its name Annunciation appears in church use no earlier than the 7th century, earlier names being “Feast of the Incarnation” or “Angelic Greeting” In Bulgaria, March 25 is called “Blagovets” and is celebrated in a very unique way, rejoicing at the final victory of spring over the winter cold The cuckoo notifies everyone of the arrival of heat, for whose appearance it is necessary to prepare You definitely need to be healthy, well-fed and cheerful, and have a hard coin or rustling bills in your pocket Having heard a close cuckoo, they should have time to count all the capital they have with them Correct observance of the ritual promised great prosperity and much joy for the year ahead In Bulgaria they believe that the heavens open on Blagovets, and the Lord God himself descends to earth In some villages, it was customary to look at the sky the night before the holiday, and, seeing the Lord, make your most cherished wish It is also believed that on this day any wound heals very quickly, so young girls pierced their ears for earrings on the Annunciation Lent is not a hindrance to setting tables with plentiful treats; housewives serve ritual baked goods, fish dishes, Lenten pies with vegetables and honey Greens are always served with the main dishes, as a symbol of the arrival of spring Hosts and guests turn to each other with wishes of health and well-being On the holiday, one should not forget about the poor and orphans; everyone should be treated and given good wishes