Text size

Bulgarians celebrate Petlyovden (Rooster Day) - the male holiday for fertility

published on 2/2/24 5:05 AM

Photo: BGNES

On February 2, according to the Bulgarian folk calendar, it is Petlyovden (Rooster Day) - a day dedicated to the health and fertility of male offspring. It is most widely popular in Eastern Bulgaria.

One of the obligatory elements is the sacrifice of a rooster. It is performed by women, mothers of male children, or by a boy who has not reached sexual maturity (called a "petelar"). In some settlements, the sacrificial bird must be black in color. The mother or peterel performs the sacrifice on the threshold of the road gate.

A sign of the cross is also made with blood on the faces of the boys, on the doors of the home. The mothers give pieces from the cooked rooster to neighbours, along with pieces of pita bread.

Последвайте ни и в Google News Showcase, за да научите най-важното от деня!

Radio Bulgaria Folklore Bulgarian folk traditions folk calendar Petlyovden Rooster Day

More from category

Folklore meeting in Bulgaria's Dobrich brings together different communities for the International Day of Tolerance

The Youth Centre "Zahari Stoyanov" in the town of Dobrich, Northeastern Bulgaria, is organizing a folklore meeting of communities on the occasion of the International Day of Tolerance. The aim of the event, which will take place from today to 17..

published on 11/15/24 6:10 AM

Bulgarian dance group Vito Horo takes part in multicultural women’s festival Harmony of Colours in Perth

The Bulgarian folklore dance group Vito Horo from Perth will take part in the multicultural women’s festival Harmony of Colours, taking place tonight in the Australian city, the Bulgarian association Rodina has announced. Besides the Bulgarian..

published on 10/12/24 11:54 AM

Urban aesthetics and maritime livelihood – life in the ancient city of Anhialo

The resort towns along Bulgaria’s Black Sea coast can be broadly categorized into two types: modern ones, characterized by their lively and colorful streets, and port cities with a rich history. Various settlers have passed through these port towns,..

published on 9/2/24 8:25 AM