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Bulgarians celebrate Saint Nicholas Day

Photo: Ani Petrova, BNR

On December 6, the Bulgarian Orthodox Church celebrates the feast of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker known in Bulgaria as Nikulden. Saint Nicholas is believed to be a patron of the seas, sailors and fishermen and is one of the most revered saints in Bulgaria and throughout the Christian world. 


Many churches in Bulgaria have their patron's day today. The Bulgarian Orthodox Church celebrates the memory of St. Nicholas with a festive holy liturgy and consecration of fish dishes for the health and blessing of the faithful.


December 6 is also considered a day of bankers and merchants. 

Nikulden is the official day of the city of Burgas, as citizens have chosen the saint as their heavenly patron. 

More than 186,000 Bulgarians bearing the names Nikola, Nikolay, Nina, Nikolina, Nikoleta and others are celebrating their name day.



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