On March 1st, in Samokov and the rest of Bulgaria, Bulgarians celebrate Baba Marta.
Baba Marta is a holiday that welcomes the start of spring. On this day, people exchange martenitsi, small red-and-white bracelets or yarn figures, as a way to wish each other health, happiness and good luck.
The Baba Marta tradition comes from ancient Bulgarian folklore and has been passed down for over 1,000 years. Long ago, people believed that the weather in early spring was controlled by Baba Marta, a magical grandmother who could bring either warm sunshine or cold storms. To keep her in a good mood and help winter end sooner, people wore red and white threads as a symbol of health, protection and hope for the new season.
The tradition also celebrates:
The end of winter and the return of nature.
Protection from sickness during the changing weather.
