Banya brings people together throughout the year with folklore, family celebrations, sport, and seasonal traditions.
Use this guide when planning your visit, then make Guest House Geshevi your accommodation base near the town's mineral pools and local attractions.
Dates and programs can vary, so check locally before making travel plans.
The throwing of the cross by the priest of the town into the river 'Stryama' - in cold, ice, and snow, the young people in the village throw themselves recklessly into the icy waters of the river 'Stryama' and the struggle to be the one to catch the cross is intense. Whoever catches it goes around the houses in the village in the evening, and people kiss the cross for good health.
At Mogilata, ritual meals are prepared, wine is shared, and folklore concerts take place during the day. The celebration is dedicated to vineyards and wine, bringing local people and guests together around a shared table. The tradition is kept alive with songs, horo dances, and good spirits throughout the day.
At the end of February, beginning of March - 7 weeks before Easter, the kukeri announce their presence in the center, dancing to the sounds of bells, and reenacting old Bulgarian customs. A competition for the most original kuker is held, and children dress up as fairy tale characters, with everyone receiving prizes.
The raising of the flag of the town of Banya, celebrations, and concerts on the occasion of Bulgaria's liberation from Ottoman rule.
Palm Sunday is a movable Christian, religious, and folk holiday celebrated in the Orthodox, Catholic, and Protestant churches one week before Easter, on the Sunday following Lazarus Day.
A celebration on the occasion of the Day of Slavic Literature and Culture, with concerts by students from the Neofit Rilski Primary School in Banya, is held.
A celebration is held in Banya on the occasion of Children's Day, which is also recognized as an international holiday due to the initiative stemming from the World Conference on Child Health.
The State Aquathlon Championship is organized by the Triathlon Club in Banya, named Triathlete, in memory of Nikolay Popov, a long-time chairman of the Triathlete Sports Club. The competition takes place on the large mineral beach on the first Sunday of June.
The Day of Banya is celebrated on the last Saturday of August. The festivities typically begin with the raising of the flag of Banya at 10:30 a.m. Throughout the day, there are folkloric concerts, various activities and organizations for children, performances by renowned singers, and an evening disco. The highlight of the celebration is the vibrant fireworks display and the illuminating night sky at 9:00 p.m. Additionally, at the airport, there is an Aviofest where visitors have the opportunity to ride in airplanes.
A celebration near the big Christmas tree in the center, featuring a concert by the Christmas carol group. There are festive decorations, lights, and traditional Christmas customs. Families and guests gather, songs are performed, and the carolers bring blessings for health and prosperity. The center becomes a pleasant place for meetings and festive photos.