Christmas Eve 2025
Date: December 24, 2025 (Wednesday)
Country: Bulgaria Public Holidays
Description
Christmas Eve in Bulgaria is called Badni Vecher. Families gather at home, light a candle, and set a table with many meatless dishes. They break a special bread called pita and place a coin inside for luck.
It takes place on the evening of December 24. People often attend church services and prepare for the next day, Christmas. The food and rituals follow old Christian and folk traditions that have been passed down for generations.
The night is important because it brings family together and prepares hearts for the birth of Jesus. It also honors cultural customs and wishes for health and prosperity in the coming year.
Traditions
Christmas Eve in Bulgaria is called Badni Vecher. Families fast and eat a meatless supper with an odd number of dishes. Common foods are beans, cabbage, stuffed peppers, walnuts, dried fruit, honey, and banitsa with a hidden coin for luck.
People set straw under the tablecloth to symbolize the manger. A special log called badnik is brought home and burned for warmth and good fortune. Some families go to midnight church. Children and young men called koledari sing carols and wish health and luck while visiting houses early on Christmas Day.
Regional differences exist. Coastal towns may include fish. Mountain villages keep older pagan customs more strongly. Overall the night is quiet, family focused, and full of wishes for the new year.
Travel Tips
On Christmas Eve in Bulgaria expect many shops and offices to close early. Public transport may run reduced schedules. Cities have festive decorations and markets, but smaller villages may be very quiet and traditional.
Church services, carol singing and family feasts are common. Tourist attractions may have special hours or events, so check schedules ahead. Roads and trains can be busy before the holiday, so book tickets early and allow extra travel time.
Enjoy local food, join a candlelight service, and be respectful of family traditions. Stay aware of opening hours, keep valuables safe in crowds, and dress warmly for evening celebrations.