December 2026 Holidays in Bulgaria
December is the month of Christmas — the warmest family holiday in Bulgaria. Nikulden (December 6th) opens the festive season with a fish dinner, while Christmas Eve and Christmas (December 24th–26th) are the culmination with a fasting supper, carollers, and gifts. The month is filled with magic, warmth, and anticipation.
What to Celebrate
On December 6th, Nikulden is celebrated — the feast of St. Nicholas. Traditionally, fish (carp) is prepared. Major name day for Nikola, Nikolay, Nina, Nikolina.
On December 24th, families gather for a fasting supper with an odd number of dishes. A coin is hidden in banitsa for luck, and straw is placed under the table.
Christmas (December 25th–26th) is the biggest family holiday. Official public holidays. On December 25th, a festive meat-based meal is prepared after the long fast.
On December 20th, Ignazhden is celebrated — the start of the Christmas holiday period in the folk calendar. Name day for Ignat, Ignatiy.
Cultural Context
Christmas traditions in Bulgaria are a unique blend of Christian and pagan customs. On Christmas Eve (December 24th), a fasting supper with an odd number of dishes (usually 7, 9, or 11) is prepared. Straw is placed under the table, and a coin is hidden in the last banitsa — whoever finds it will be happy. Carollers — groups of young men — go from house to house singing carols and blessing homes. Nikulden (December 6th) is the day when fish (traditionally carp) is prepared — a major name day for Nikola, Nikolay, Nikolina.