Every year on February 14th, Bulgaria celebrates Trifon Zarezan, a traditional holiday honoring St. Trifon, the patron saint of vineyards and winemakers. Often referred to as the Bulgarian “Day of the Vinegrower,” this centuries-old holiday marks the start of the new agricultural season for winemakers, who celebrate by pruning the vines to encourage a fruitful harvest.
Festivities begin with rituals in vineyards, where winemakers bless the vines and sprinkle them with wine to ensure a bountiful season. Traditional songs, folk dances, and community feasts bring people together to celebrate the essential role that wine and vineyards play in Bulgarian culture. In many regions, the celebration includes choosing a “King of the Vines” who leads the celebrations and symbolizes prosperity for the year ahead.
Trifon Zarezan is a unique expression of Bulgaria’s deep-rooted love for wine and is cherished by communities across the country. The holiday not only marks the beginning of the grape-growing season but also embodies Bulgaria’s centuries-old winemaking heritage, bringing a touch of history, tradition, and festivity to the vineyards.
