Vasilitsa 2025: How Bulgarian Schools Celebrated Tradition with Rituals, Dances, and Creativity
On January 14, 2025, schools across the country once again united to celebrate the Roma New Year – Vasilitsa. The event was filled with a variety of initiatives, including reenactments of the Survakan custom, songs, dances, exhibitions, and meetings with representatives of local communities. Students, teachers, educational mediators, and parents worked together to create a festive atmosphere, paying tribute to traditions and showcasing the importance of cultural diversity.
From small villages to large cities, each school added its own unique touch to the holiday. Some organized school celebrations, others met with mayors and public figures, and still others visited key institutions, such as the National Assembly. Everywhere, the spirit of Vasilitsa united people, bringing a message of kindness, health, and togetherness.
And this year, over 65 settlements from all over the country joined the campaign.
The children – clean and beautiful, danced, told stories, sang songs and created a festive atmosphere and unforgettable emotions everywhere.
And here is how they did it in many of the places in the country that we were told about:
Asenovtsi village, Levski municipality, Pleven region
Students from the “Hristo Botev” Primary School in the village of Asenovtsi celebrated the holiday of Vasilitsa with a group of survakars who visited the school and the town hall. In the festive atmosphere, the children had the opportunity to learn more about the traditions associated with Vasilitsa and to get acquainted with the legend of Bango Vasil – the patron saint of the Roma. The event contributed to the preservation and transmission of cultural heritage, while at the same time creating joy and a festive mood among all participants.
Banitsa village, Vratsa municipality
Students from the 1st to 7th grades of the “Hristo Botev” Primary School in the village of Banitsa celebrated Vasilitsa with a festive program filled with creativity and enthusiasm. The main highlights were the dramatization of the festive dinner in the family, the welcoming of Bango Vasil and the performances of survakars, songs and dances. Additionally, an art competition was organized for the depiction of Bango Vasil, in which the students demonstrated their skills and creativity. The program ended with a thematic quiz that encouraged the students to share knowledge about the traditions and the meaning of the holiday. All participants participated with great enthusiasm and enjoyed their roles, actively helping with ideas. Celebrating Vasilitsa at the school showed how important the connection between traditions and the creative development of the students is.
Berkovitsa,
III Primary School “Ivan Vazov”
The “Folklore of Ethnicities” Club at III Primary School “Ivan Vazov”, Berkovitsa, organized an exciting event dedicated to the holiday Vasilitsa, or the Roma New Year. The 2nd grade students and the participants in the club actively participated in the initiatives aimed at getting to know and respect the Roma culture. Maria, an educational mediator at the school, told how her family celebrates Vasilitsa – one of the most significant holidays for the Roma community. She shared about the preparations before the holiday, the festive table with traditional dishes such as banitsa, lucky bread and beans, as well as the ritual of breaking the bread with a blessing for health and luck. The students watched a special film about Bango Vasil – a symbol of Vasilitsa and an important figure in Roma culture. The film explained the meaning of the holiday and the traditions accompanying the celebrations. The participants in the “Folklore of Ethnicities” club and the students discussed what they had learned, shared their impressions and got acquainted with the diversity of customs. The event encouraged cultural tolerance and understanding between the students, emphasizing the importance of getting to know and respecting different cultures. Vasilitsa became a holiday that united the students and gave them a valuable lesson about the richness of Roma tradition.
Bobov Dol
At the Hristo Botev Secondary School in the town of Bobov Dol, the Vasilitsa holiday was celebrated with a festive concert, which impressed with a diverse program and brought together students, teachers and guests in a warm and friendly atmosphere. Students from grades 5 to 12 demonstrated enviable singing skills, performing two songs from folklore within the framework of the project “Together in Arts and Sports” led by Ventsislava Vikentieva. The children presented their magic tricks, with which they delighted and impressed their classmates. A special guest of the celebration was Vasil Iliev from Kyustendil – a professional musician and graduate of music pedagogy at the Southwestern University “Neofit Rilski”. The students and those present sang the Roma anthem “Dzhelem, Dzhelem” together, which created a feeling of unity and respect for the Roma culture. The popular song inspired all participants, who happily joined in the singing. The celebration not only excited and culturally enriched the attendees, but also demonstrated the power of arts and music to unite people. The event gave the children the opportunity to showcase their talents and share the cultural wealth of the Roma community with their classmates and teachers.
Borovan
Survakari from the “Otets Paisii” Primary School in the village of Borovan visited the Mayor of the Borovan Municipality, Mr. Ivan Kostovski. They wished for health, luck and prosperity in the New Year.
Brusartsi
The students from the “Hr. Botev” Secondary School celebrated the Roma New Year-Vasilitsa, and also congratulated the employees of the Brusartsi Municipality.
Byala, Ruse Region
Students and teachers from the PG in the town of Byala participated in a presentation on the topic “Bango Vasil”. The presentation was well received by all those present and attracted the attention of the audience. The event proved to be interesting and useful for everyone, helping to expand knowledge about the traditions associated with the Roma New Year.
Byala Slatina,
Vocational High School of Clothing “Elisaveta Bagryana”
The students of the PGO “Elisaveta Bagryana” in the town of Byala Slatina celebrated the holiday of Vasilitsa by presenting the traditions and customs associated with this important day for the Roma community. They acted out a scene in which they told legends about the holiday, and performed an impressive Roma dance. Students from grades 9 to 12 participated in the event, who had a lot of fun. Through this holiday, the high school once again strengthened its spirit of tolerance and understanding.
Veliko Tarnovo
The celebrations of the Roma New Year – Vasilitsa continued on January 15th and 18th. Veliko Tarnovo was also filled with traditional songs, dances and names. At the invitation of the Amalipe Center, students received the Municipality of Veliko Tarnovo, the Regional Department of Education – Veliko Tarnovo, the Regional Department of Education and the National Youth Service “Iskra-1896”. On January 18, 2025, an event was held, organized by the Amalipe Center and the Tam Club Veliko Tarnovo in the club of the same name, to celebrate the Roma New Year – Bango Vasily and the presentation of Atanas Atanasov’s new book “The House with the White Sail”. See more here: https://amalipe.bg/vasilitsa-veliko-tarnovo-2025/
Vetren
On January 13, 2025, students from the “St. St. Cyril and Methodius” Primary School in Vetren celebrated the Roma New Year. The educational mediator introduced the students to the celebration of the holiday, the rituals and the preparation of Vasilitsa.
village of Vidrare, Sofia region
A short thematic program was held at the “Vasil Levski” Primary School, including the legend of Bango Vasil, a scene from a Romani fairy tale, a performance of the song “Oh, Vasiliy dae”, survakane and a treat with banitsa with good luck. The program showed respect for the Romani holiday, emphasizing that it is an indispensable part of the treasury of Bulgarian culture.
Valchedrum
In the Second Primary School “Ivan Vazov” in the town of Valchedrum, Montana region, students and teachers together created an unforgettable
festive atmosphere on the occasion of Vasilitsa. The event included a dramatization of the traditions associated with the holiday and stylized Romani dances, which impressed all those present. 15 students from grades 5 and 6, two teachers and the educational mediator Kassandra Dimitrova took part, with the majority of participants from the Roma community. The dramatization was prepared with inspiration and a lot of energy under the leadership of Ms. Yordanka Todorova. The culmination of the event was the dance performance prepared by Ms. Kristiana Vlashka, which literally “exploded” the audience. The festive mood captured all those present, turning the event into a true cultural celebration for the school.
Valchi dol
At the “Vasil Levski” Secondary School in the town of Valchi dol, the Bango Vasili holiday was celebrated with an inspiring event in the school library. The educational mediator organized a presentation of the holiday through stories and short Roma songs, specially prepared for the occasion. The students from the “Folklore of the Ethnicities” group showered the teachers with titles in the Roma language, bringing a festive mood and cultural authenticity. The event ended with a treat, including a banitsa with good luck, prepared with love by one of the grandmothers in the community. The participants – 10 third grade students, the two mediators, a teacher and the guest grandmother – enjoyed the warm atmosphere. The children, representing three different ethnic groups, left with songs, smiles and a lot of new knowledge. When leaving the library, everyone asked the same question: “When again?”
Varbitsa
On January 14, 2025, the students of the Secondary School “St. Paisii Hilendarski” in Varbitsa, with the support of the educational mediator and Mrs. Ortseva, celebrated the Roma New Year – Bango Vasil. In a festive atmosphere, the children learned more about the traditions and the meaning of this day.
Galiche
In the gymnasium of the Secondary School “Hristo Botev”, v. Galiche, a celebration was organized on the occasion of Vasilitsa, which brought together
students, teachers, parents and the educational mediator in a festive atmosphere. The program included a presentation, a play, dances, poems and songs, prepared by the students with great diligence and enthusiasm. Students from 5th to 12th grade, as well as the school dance troupe, participated. The students, united regardless of their ethnicity, presented impressive performances that brought a lot of mood and satisfaction to all those present. Parents were especially happy to see how the children work together and create unforgettable moments. Traditionally, at the “Hristo Botev” Secondary School, all holidays are celebrated together, and this event once again emphasized the importance of cohesion and cooperation in the school community.
Glozhene, Vratsa region
At the “Hristo Botev” Primary School in the village of Glozhene, the students celebrated Vasilitsa with diverse and inspiring activities aimed at getting to know the Roma culture and traditions. A teacher told the students various legends related to the holiday, emphasizing its importance for the Roma community. The 5th grade students presented a theatrical performance based on the legend of the Roma. The main role was played by a 1st grade student, which brought even more joy and emotions to the performance. The holiday ended with a quiz, in which each correct answer was rewarded with a gift, encouraging participants to show their knowledge of Vasilitsa. The event not only helped to get to know the Roma culture and traditions, but also engaged the students in creative and cognitive activities that encouraged their activity and interest. Vasilitsa at the Hristo Botev Primary School in Glozhene was a celebration of cohesion, learning and respect for cultural diversity.
Golyamo Novo village, Targovishte municipality
At the “Georgi Stoykov Rakovski” Primary School in Golyamo Novo village, on the occasion of the holiday Vasilitsa – the Roma New Year, students actively participated in various activities. Representatives of the student parliament answered questions from the game “The Wealth of the Roma” and discussed topics about the unity and tolerance of different ethnicities and cultures. Students from the junior high school stage drew on the theme “Vasilitsa” and read Roma fairy tales. In an interesting way, students from grades 3-4 and the preparatory group organized an exhibition of drawings after watching a film about the good lame old man Bango Vasil. They also recreated the tradition in the classroom by participating in the preparation of the delicious banitsa – part of the festive table. In addition, the students survak the school management with survakniki that they had made themselves. For the finale, all participants competed in specially selected sports games, and the girls greeted those present with a beautiful dance. The activities were part of the initiative “Let’s rebuild the bridges between us”, which aroused a great desire to participate among all students, teachers and guests. All participants were satisfied with the achieved result and with the fact that they were able to celebrate the holiday together.
Gorna Oryahovitsa
PGHT “Prof. Dr. Asen Zlatarov”
Bango Vasil and Christmas in Italian are just part of the series “Traveling through time – learning through traditions” under the project “Kitchen for dreams” of the Gorna Oryahovitsa Vocational High School of Food Technology “Prof. Dr. Asen Zlatarov”, which is funded under the program of the Center for Educational Integration of Children and Students from Ethnic Minorities. To celebrate the Roma holiday, the students invited Zhelyazka Parusheva, known among the Roma community for her cooking skills and her knowledge of old traditions. She showed the students how to prepare traditional dishes for the holiday, told the children about the customs of this day so important for the Roma. The students were also well prepared and recreated some of the traditions such as throwing rice and calling for health.
Gradina village, Plovdiv region
At the Hristo Botev Primary School, students from the “Folklore of Ethnicities” interest group celebrated the Vasilitsa holiday by making survaks from natural materials and carrying out the survakane custom. The students, together with their parents, made traditional survaks with desire and creativity. The children survaked parents, teachers and their classmates, calling for health, prosperity and well-being, as dictated by Roma traditions. With the involvement of parents in the preparation of the holiday, the event contributed to creating closer ties between families and the school community. The holiday caused many positive emotions and gave the students the opportunity to get acquainted with and experience the traditions of Roma culture.
Gradishte
At the Primary School “Vasil Levski”, village of Gradishte, Shumen Municipality, students and the school team celebrated the Roma New Year with traditions, music, culture and sharing of everyone’s family customs
Gradnitsa, Gabrovo Region
On January 14, a celebration was organized in the assembly hall of PGTM – Gradnitsa on the occasion of Vasilitsa. Students from the 8th, 10th and 11th grades participated in the event, which provided an opportunity to get acquainted with the customs and traditions of the Roma, Islamic and Christian cultures. By presenting the holiday customs in the different communities, the students shared how they celebrate the holiday in their families. At the end of the official part, a game was organized, which further enthusiastically entertained the participants. The event created a festive mood and contributed to mutual understanding and respect between cultures.
Galabovo,
First Primary School “St. Paisii Hilendarski”
At the First Primary School “St. Paisii Hilendarski” in the town of Galabovo, a short film about Roma holidays and customs, including Vasilitsa, was presented. A discussion was held about the common traditions between Christmas and Vasilitsa. In addition, Roma children visited the Municipality of Galabovo and performed a survakane. 147 students, teachers and parents participated. By celebrating the Vasilitsa holiday, the school strives to attract the attention of students and the public in the town, overcoming stereotypes and promoting understanding between different communities.
Dobrolevo village, Vratsa region
At the “St. St. Cyril and Methodius” primary school in Dobrolevo village, the students of folklore of ethnic groups (grades 5-7) presented a Roma dance, and the students of folklore of ethnic groups (grades 2-4) prepared a dramatization of the fairy tale “The Clever Roma” and talked about the preparations for the holiday. Anna Borisova from grade 6 performed the songs “Vasilitsa” and “Sae Roma”. The activities included a quiz on the Wordwall platform related to the holiday, as well as making survachki with the help of parents. The festive events were held in the hall of the “Probuda” community center. Guests of the celebration were schools from the network “Activity and commitment of the principal as a condition for the development of the educational institution,” coordinators from the RDO city Vratsa, including Ms. Gergana Vasileva (Head of the OMDC Department) and Ms. Rosenka Kabatliyska (Senior Expert in CHEME), principals of 10 schools, Irina Asenova (Coordinator for the Northwestern Region of the Center for Educational and Cultural Development “Amalipe”), parents and students. The celebration was attended by guests of different age groups and ethnicities, with a total of about 100 people participating. Cooperation and partnership was achieved with the parents, who prepared traditional dishes for the holiday and participated in the making of survachki. We received positive feedback from all guests of the celebration.
Dolni Chiflik
The students performed survachki in the municipality of Dolni Chiflik, the village of Detelina and the village of Staro Oryahovo, and with their participation in this important holiday for the Roma community, conveyed messages of health, well-being and luck in the new year. The festive ritual was also shared with the school staff, who joined in the atmosphere of solemnity and joy. An event that not only preserves the tradition, but also enriches the cultural exchange and mutual respect between the different ethnicities in our school.
Dolno Golemantsi village, Haskovo municipality
At the “Hristo Botev” Primary School in the village of Dolno Golemantsi, the students celebrated the Vasilitsa holiday with exciting activities. The presenter told about the meaning of the holiday, and every detail of the tradition was presented through a scene. Students took on the roles of Bango Vasil, the grandmother, grandfather in the family and the housewife, bringing the customs of the holiday to life. The culmination of the celebration was the survakan for health and prosperity, which the students performed with great enthusiasm. Students from grades 1 to 7, representatives of different ethnicities – Roma, Bulgarians and Muslims, participated in the activities, showing once again the beauty of joint celebration and tolerance.
Dushevo village, Sevlievo municipality
At the “St. St. Cyril and Methodius” in the village of Dushevo, Sevlievo municipality, a board was prepared in a prominent place in the school lobby, which presents the traditions of celebrating Vasilitsa. During class hours, discussions were held on the topic of bridges between cultures. Students, staff and teachers from the school, including Bulgarians, Roma and Vlachs, with students from grades 1 to 7, participated in the initiative.
Dalgopol, Varna region
The custom of Vasilitsa was recreated at the Ivan Vazov Primary School. The event caused satisfaction among parents and students. The parents demonstrated commitment and responsibility, and were satisfied with both their own participation and the attention paid to them. The satisfaction from celebrating the holiday was felt by all participants.
Izgrev village, Shumen region
At the “P.R. Slaveykov” primary school in Izgrev village, Shumen region, Roma students aged 11 to 15 celebrated the Vasilitsa holiday with a short program and dances. The celebration created an atmosphere of celebration and empathy for the traditions of the Roma New Year.
Kamen village, Sliven municipality
Students from grades 1 to 7 and their parents at the “St. Cyril and Methodius” primary school in Kamen village participated in various activities on the occasion of the Vasilitsa holiday. The program included the song “Vasilitsa”, a dramatization of the traditional custom and a talk dedicated to the customs of the holiday. After that, a dance was performed, which brought everyone together in common joy and merriment. The participants were very happy and satisfied with the event, which created a wonderful festive atmosphere.
Karadjovo
On January 13, 2025, students from the “Folklore of Ethnicities” group at the “Vasil Levski” Primary School in the village of Karadjovo presented the customs and traditions of welcoming the Roma New Year to the entire school community in the school’s gym. The activity was part of a broader initiative, including a visit to two institutions. On the same day, the students visited the central office of the “Maritsa” newspaper in the city of Plovdiv, where they learned about journalistic work and exchanged experiences. The performances were attended by students from the junior high school stage (grades 5-7), as well as the leaders of the extracurricular activity groups – teachers Maya Zdravova, Natalia Kutsenko and Maria Dimitrova, as well as the educational mediator Boycho Kochev. The entire school community was involved in the festive atmosphere and actively expected to hear the stories about the visits to the institutions. The students and their teachers were not lacking in emotions and pride from the successful presentation of the traditions and culture of the Roma community.
Kirchevo
The students from the “Hristo Botev” Primary School in the village of Kirchevo, together with the children from the “Happy Childhood” Kindergarten, celebrated Bango Vasily with songs, dances and dramatizations, which brought a festive mood and cohesion among the participants.
Lesura
The students of the “Vasil Levski” Primary School in the village of Lesura celebrated the holiday of Bango Vasil with enthusiasm and a lot of emotions. The celebration was attended by students from 1st to 7th grade, and among the guests were the mayor of the village Evgeni Zahariev, the representative of the “Amalipe” Center Irena Vasileva, parents and teachers. The event included a story about the legend of Bango Vasil, a performance of traditional dances such as the “Abdai” dance and the gypsy dance, as well as poems dedicated to the holiday. The parents further enriched the program by sharing how they celebrate this day at home.
Lehchevo village, Montana region
“St. St. Cyril and Methodius” Secondary School, Lehchevo village, Montana
region, celebrates Vasilitsa with a contest for Miss and Mr. Vasilitsa. The students from 5th to 7th grade of “St. St. Cyril and Methodius” Secondary School in the village of Lehchevo celebrated Vasilitsa with great excitement and creative spirit. The main highlight of the program was the Miss and Mr. Vasilitsa competition, which impressed all those present with the artistry and enthusiasm of the participants. Classmates had the opportunity to vote for their favorites, which brought additional emotion to the celebration. The program also included traditional Roma songs and dances performed by the students, which contributed to the festive atmosphere. The celebration ended with a horo, in which all those present joined in, creating a sense of unity and joy. The celebration not only emphasized the importance of creative expression, but was also a valuable lesson in cultural enrichment and understanding.
Lom
At the IV Primary School “Hristo Botev” in Lom, the Vasilitsa holiday was celebrated with a presentation, recital and performance of songs related to the traditions and customs of the Roma New Year. Students and teachers actively participated in the activities and enjoyed each performance. The event attracted the attention of students and colleagues, and the results achieved left everyone satisfied.
Lulichka
Traditionally, the Interest Group “Local History” from the Primary School “Vasil Levski” in the village of Lulichka made survachki for the New Year. The survachki is woven from symbols. Everything about it has its own special meaning. It is believed that the survachki brings health because it is made from dogwood – the tree that blooms at the end of January. According to beliefs, it is very strong and tough, which symbolizes good health.
Lukovit
On January 14, in honor of the Roma New Year – Vasilitsa, the students of the Primary School “Eng. Georgi Ivanov Valkov” created a festive mood with traditional sayings for health, happiness and success in the new year. In the spirit of the holiday, they survachki the school principal, Mrs. Genoveva Tsvetkova, their teachers and classmates, bringing positive energy and wishes for well-being. The ritual was led by Mrs. Ekaterina Ivanova. The survachki for the holiday were made by the students of the 3. b grade with the class teacher Silvia Petkova. In the group for compulsory preschool education, where the youngest children are, the guest of the school Mrs. Monika Ivanova made a special presentation about the legend of Bango Vasil. The deputy director of the school, Mrs. Tsvetozara Teodosieva, told the children what the survachki symbolizes and explained the survakan ritual. An exciting gift for the children was a video tale about Bango Vasil, provided by the children’s writer Milena Dimova. The participants in the event – teachers, students and parents who are part of the Roma ethnic group, together celebrated the traditions of the Vasilitsa holiday.
Madara village, Shumen region
At Panayot Volov Primary School, the Vasilitsa holiday was celebrated with a presentation, songs, puzzles, dances and lots of fun. Celebrating Vasilitsa at school led to many positive results and achievements:
Cultural enrichment: Students learned about the traditions and customs of the Bulgarian Roma communities, which strengthened their understanding of cultural diversity.
Social integration: The event helped build bridges between the different ethnic groups in the school, promoting a spirit of tolerance and acceptance.
Development of creative skills: The preparation of the holiday developed the creativity and artistic skills of the students.
Education about history and identity: Students gained knowledge about the history and cultural identity of the Roma, which helped build respect for differences.
Strengthening the school environment: The event created a friendly and unifying atmosphere in the school.
Improving communication skills: Students developed their public speaking and teamwork skills.
By celebrating Vasilitsa, the school contributed to enriching education and building a stronger and more united school community.
Manole
At the “Vasil Levski” Secondary School in Manole, the educational mediator introduced the students to the tradition of Vasilitsa. The children listened with interest and actively participated in the discussion, sharing how they personally celebrate this important holiday for the Roma community.
Maglizh
PGSS “Geo Milev”,
At the PGSS “Geo Milev” in Maglizh, students from the high school, part of the Roma community, celebrated the Roma New Year. The event was dedicated to highlighting the progress and successful future of the Roma community. Teachers and students actively participated in celebrating the holiday, demonstrating their respect for traditions and the desire for development in a positive direction. The goal was to show that the Roma community is developing towards a better and more successful future.
Primary School “Hristo Botev”, Maglizh
Students from Primary School “Hristo Botev” in Maglizh celebrated the holiday by performing a dance to the song “Vasilitsa”. The celebration was held at the school, with the participants presenting some of the Roma traditions and customs associated with the Roma New Year. The dance created a festive mood and was an inspiring moment for all those present.
village of Ovcha Mogila
On January 14, the students and the team of Primary School “St. St. Cyril and Methodius” in the village of Ovcha Mogila celebrated the holiday of Vasilitsa with a diverse program. The event included a presentation about the legend of Vasilitsa, a dramatization of a fairy tale, sending wishes for the New Year, traditional survakane, songs and dances. The festive activities included students from grades 1 to 7, as well as guests from the village of Batak, parents of the students and the school staff. The program created a joyful atmosphere and strengthened the community by sharing cultural heritage and the festive spirit.
Omurtag
At the Second Primary School “Vasil Levski” in Omurtag, the Roma New Year was celebrated with great excitement and enthusiasm. Children from the preparatory group and students from grades 1 to 4, all of Roma origin, together with teachers and parents, actively participated in the festive program. The event included poems, songs, dances and stories that enlivened the atmosphere and created a real sense of community. This tradition, which the school celebrates every year, is of great interest to the children and their parents. They eagerly and excitedly await the holiday that unites them and reminds them of the importance of cultural heritage.
Pazardzhik
PGSS “Tsaritsa Yoanna”
On January 14, the famous designer Iliya Iliev captivated the audience of PGSS “Tsaritsa Yoanna” with an inspiring story about his school years, his professional path and the beautiful fashion fairy tale created with work, perseverance, imagination and love. Students from the 8th to 12th grades, together with teachers and guests, took an active part in the festive program dedicated to Vasilisa. Sergio-Angel Naydenov from 11. A grade prepared a thematic presentation for the holiday, which was met with great approval. The poetry of Usin Kerim was performed by Bogomil Mechov, a former graduate of the school, and Maria Stoyanova from 10. B grade presented her essay, with which she won a place in the youth camp of “Arete”. The next day, the school had the honor of welcoming Katya Dimitrova from “Amalipe”, who turned the students into “fake news hunters” through an interactive activity. The celebration of Vasilitsa at the “Tsaritsa Yoanna” Primary and Secondary School was not only a holiday, but also an inspiring event that combined tradition, art and modern skills.
Pobeda village, Dobrich region
In the “Dobri Voynikov” Primary and Secondary School, students, together with their parents, made survakniki for Vasilitsa – the Roma New Year. On
the day of the holiday, the children used the survakniki to call their relatives, who work in the city hall and commercial establishments, for health, luck, prosperity and fertility. The survakars sent wishes for health and luck to the director, the medical worker, the teachers and the support staff at the school. As tradition dictates, they received treats and money from everyone they visited. The initiative was held in the school, the town hall, public buildings, the parents’ homes and even online. Parents – both Roma and Bulgarian – were happy to provide materials for making the survakniks, and the people visited in public places and in the homes delighted the children with treats and gifts. Everyone was satisfied with the festive initiative and the atmosphere of unity and joy created.
Polsko Kosovo
At the “St. Cyril and Methodius” Primary School, Polsko Kosovo village, Ruse region, the Vasilitsa holiday was celebrated with a festive concert. The program included a recital, songs and dances that presented the wealth of cultural traditions. The event was attended by participants and guests of different ages – from 18 to 75 years old, celebrating Bulgarians, Roma and Turks together. The guests shared their excitement and joy at the way the holiday was celebrated, emphasizing the festive and cohesive atmosphere that brought everyone together in the school community.
village of Pchelnik, Varna region
The students got acquainted with the traditions of celebrating Vasilitsa among different Roma groups, as well as with the legend of St. Basil the Intercessor. As part of the holiday, they prepared a board with recipes from the New Year’s table and beliefs related to the holiday. Children dressed in traditional clothes sang survaka for health. The event was held at the “Hristo Botev” Primary School and once again became a holiday for the children. They felt at home and understood, as the event aroused curiosity, positive emotions and many smiles in them.
Radanovo
At the “St. St. Cyril and Methodius” Primary School, village of Radanovo, the Roma New Year was celebrated in an exciting and traditional way.
Rumyantsevo
At the “Hristo Botev” Primary School, village of Rumyantsevo, Vasilitsa was celebrated with a unique video clip, which presented some of the most important traditions and customs of the holiday. Students from grades 3, 4, 5 and 6 participated in the initiative, and they were joined by the youngest children, as well as the school’s cooks. All participants were of Roma origin. The scene in the video aroused great interest and was highly appreciated by both the children and the teachers. The atmosphere was filled with excitement and satisfaction with the achieved result.
Sborishte
The students from the primary and junior high school stages of the Nikola Prokopiev Primary School in the village of Sborishte celebrated the traditional holiday Vasilitsa – the Roma New Year on January 14. The events were organized within the framework of the campaign of the Center for Ethnic Dialogue and Tolerance Amalipe “Let’s rebuild the bridges between us”. The students recreated the symbolism of the evening with a specially arranged table, including traditional dishes, such as chicken with rice, bread and banitsa with good luck. The celebration continued with a contest “Miss Vasilitsa 2025”, in which the participants showed dance skills and knowledge about the holiday. The prize was deservedly won by Gena Petrova from the 6th grade. The students from the primary stage participated in the traditional survakan and expressed their wishes for a healthy and successful year. The holiday was an occasion for joy and unity of the entire school community and a gathering of parents and teachers. Vasilitsa for us is a symbol of cultural unity and hope for the future.
village Selanovtsi, Vratsa region
A celebration with songs, dances, poems, a film and a survaknitsa was organized under the title “Vasilitsa: the holiday that builds bridges between cultures and the hearts of people” at the “N. Y. Vaptsarov” Primary School. Students from the “Folklore of Ethnicities” groups from 1st to 4th grade, including Roma and Bulgarians, took an active part in the festive program. They accepted their roles with responsibility and became empathetic to the traditions and culture of their ancestors. The celebration inspired both the participants and the audience, who watched with interest every part of the scenario – songs, dances, a film, poems and a survaknitsa. The event showed the importance of cultural diversity and unification through traditions.
Smolnitsa village, Vratsa region Dobrich
The holiday of Bango Vasil was celebrated at the “Kliment Ohridski” elementary school, which is celebrated for three days – January 13, 14 and 15. Twisted banitsa with steam and good luck was prepared for the New Year’s table, and the table was incensed to cleanse the bad. The children sang survaka for health and good luck, and the holiday continued with many songs and dances, creating a cheerful and festive atmosphere.
Smyadovo
The “St. St. Cyril and Methodius” elementary school in the town of Smyadovo celebrated Vasilitsa – the Roma New Year. Legend has it that Bango Vasil saved two Roma children from drowning. Thus, the white-bearded shepherd is considered the Savior of the Roma. In honor of the holiday, the students were dressed in beautiful Roma folk costumes. They sang, danced and had fun as the traditions of the holiday dictate. According to an old custom, they sang survaka for the school management, who presented them with a steamed loaf of bread.
Sofia
67 Primary School “Vasil Drumev”
A presentation was made at 67 Primary School “Vasil Drumev” examining the religious and ritual customs of different ethnic groups in Bulgaria. Children from the first, second, third and fifth grades created drawings in the Christmas workshop on the topic “How do we celebrate Christmas and New Year at home with our families?” The school’s student council organized a culinary show with dishes from the Christmas and New Year’s table, with the children dressing up in themed Christmas sweaters, blouses or polo shirts. The main goal was to celebrate the holidays, show the traditions and customs of different ethnic groups, exchange celebration practices and stimulate intercultural dialogue in the school environment. 67 Primary School “Vasil Drumev” proves its role as a mediator in supporting multicultural dialogue between adolescents and their families from different ethnic groups, including immigrants and refugees. Students are happy to participate or propose initiatives that bring the community together and encourage mutual respect and tolerance.
Sofronievo
At the “Otets Paisii” Primary School, Sofronievo village, Vratsa region, students survaked the locals on the occasion of the Roma holiday Bango Vasil – a holiday of hope, health and new beginnings. With wishes for prosperity and luck, they warmed people’s hearts and brought a festive mood to every household. The school management expressed their gratitude to the educational mediators and Nevena Angelova for keeping traditions alive and making this event possible!
Staro Oryahovo
At the “St. St. Cyril and Methodius” Primary School, Staro Oryahovo village, Varna region, on January 14, students celebrated Bango Vasil with a specially organized survakane by institutions. Students from the interest groups led by Nedyalka Chankova and Plamena Zheleva participated in the initiative. One of the students told the legend of Bango Vasil, which caused great enthusiasm among all those present. The celebration passed with many emotions and mood, creating a feeling of unity and respect for traditions.
Strazhitsa
Vasilitsa was also celebrated at the “Angel Karaliychev” Secondary School, the town of Strazhitsa. Students from the 7th grade “Folklore of Ethnic Groups” interest group and students from the Student Council participated in the activities. The children participated in making survakniki, and in the “Folklore of Ethnic Groups” interest group classes, the students recreated the legend of Bango Vasil and the Roma New Year through dramatization. The students survaked the school principal and school staff, calling for health and prosperity, and the third-grade children presented a concert with songs and dances from Bulgarian, Turkish and Roma folklore to their classmates.
Sredishte
The “Tsanko Tserkovski” Primary School in the village of Sredishte traditionally celebrated the holiday of Vasilitsa. Students from the preparatory group and fourth grade participated in a dramatization of the legend of Bango Vasil, including preparing a table and breaking the festive kolak. In the fifth grade, a poster was prepared and a crossword puzzle related to customs was solved. Traditionally, a survakane was held for the mayor of the village of Sredishte, the director of the DCPLU and the school principal. Students from grades 1 to 7, as well as 6-year-old children, actively participated in the festive activities. Adults from different ethnic groups – Roma, Turks and Bulgarians, also joined in. The survakars were warmly welcomed by the three institutions they visited, and the whole day was filled with joy and a festive mood.
Topolovgrad
At the “Dr. Petar Beron” Secondary School in Topolovgrad, they celebrated the holiday of Bango Vasily with various initiatives that brought joy and unity among the students and teachers.
village of Tarnak, Vratsa region
At the “Georgi Stoykov Rakovski” Primary School in the village of The Vasilitsa holiday was celebrated with exciting and memorable activities aimed at primary and junior high school students. Primary and junior high school students were introduced to the Vasilitsa holiday and the customs and traditions associated with it through a specially prepared presentation. The participants recreated the story of Bango Vasil, which inspired both the students and the teachers. The students wished the employees of the City Hall good health and luck, following the traditions of the Roma New Year. The initiative achieved its main goal – to unite the participants by sharing the culture and traditions of the Roma community. The event showed that differences do not divide, but enrich and create bridges of understanding and tolerance. The students, teachers and the community participated with desire and enthusiasm, creating a positive atmosphere in which respect for cultural diversity was at the forefront.
village of Turnene, Pleven region
In the Primary Educational Institution “St. St. Cyril and Methodius”, the Vasilitsa holiday was celebrated with diverse and interesting activities that introduced students to Roma culture and traditions. The students learned about the rituals and legends associated with Vasilitsa and got acquainted with the richness of Roma culture through a film about Vasilitsa. First-graders prepared a banitsa with good luck, emphasizing the importance of the New Year’s table. The students from grade VI, dressed in traditional Roma dresses, recreated characteristic dances that brought a festive mood. The students from grades V-VII created a board reflecting the traditions and culture of the Roma community. The event ended with a rich treat prepared by students and teachers, which united all participants. The event took place with great enthusiasm and desire on the part of the students. The organizers shared that the activities on the occasion of Vasilitsa not only create a festive atmosphere, but also strengthen the feeling of community and cultural wealth. The satisfaction with what has been achieved confirms the importance of such initiatives for promoting understanding and tolerance in the school environment.
Ustrem village, Haskovo region
On the occasion of the Roma New Year, various reenactments were presented at the Ivan Vazov Primary School in Ustrem village, the aim of which was
to preserve the memory of traditions and help children grow up as tolerant and good people. A meeting-discussion was held between students from the school clubs and Elena Miteva, a representative of the Roma ethnic group from the village of Radovets, at which the children learned interesting facts about the traditions in the region regarding the celebration of Vasilitsa. The activities were held at the Ivan Vazov Primary School in Ustrem village and the Vasil Levski-1934 community center in the village of Radovets. The students of the Ivan Vazov Primary School always participate with desire and enthusiasm in the initiatives dedicated to the various holidays. The idea of the meeting held in the village of Radovets is to activate the parent community for a fuller participation in school life.
village of Cheshnegirovo
On 13.01.2025. at the primary school “St. St. Cyril and Methodius” in the village of Cheshnegirovo, the holiday “Vasilitsa” was celebrated. Together with students from 1st to 4th grade, a discussion was held, at which each student told the others what he knew about the holiday, how he celebrated it and what his opinion was about it. The topic of tolerance and kindness was also touched upon. The students listened to traditional songs about the holiday, read fairy tales and legends related to it. A competition for the most beautiful snowflake and the most beautiful card was also organized.
Chirpan
At the primary school “St. St. Cyril and Methodius” in the town of Chirpan, the celebration of Bango Vasili was held with a traditional survakane. Students from the second and third grades, all of Roma origin, survakane the leadership and teachers, creating a festive atmosphere. Later, the parents’ club organized a special meeting where parents of Roma and Turkish ethnicity gathered to celebrate the holiday with a treat and conversations. The event united students, parents and teachers, emphasizing the importance of traditions and shared values in the school community.
Chomakovtsi village, Pleven region
Hristo Botev Primary School Chomakovtsi celebrated the Vasilitsa holiday with various activities that presented Roma customs and traditions, both in the institution itself and in the village of Gornik, Cherven Bryag municipality. Students from grades 5, 6 and 7 who participated in the event performed a play about Vasilitsa, in which legends about the holiday were told, and the participants performed traditional names and survakan. Among them were students from different ethnicities, who showed how differences are not barriers, but part of the richness of the community. The event was organized by Polya Dimitrova, the school’s mediator, and Aleksandrina Marinova, a teacher’s assistant. According to the organizers, the goal was to remove barriers and foster tolerance by building bridges between different ethnicities, thus achieving equality and acceptance for all. The event supported the belief that our differences are a beautiful part of our unity, and that everyone deserves to be accepted, dream and achieve without fear or limitations.
Shumen
PGOHHT “Prof. Dr. Asen Zlatarov”
The Romani New Year was celebrated with a celebration at the Shumen Vocational High School of Clothing, Food and Chemical Technologies “Prof. Dr. Asen Zlatarov”. The celebration, also known as “Bango Vasil”, began with the Romani anthem “Dzhelem Dzhelem”, performed by the musicians of the famous orchestra “Marian Band” led by Zdravko Mokov. The instrumentalists presented a stylish musical program of popular ballads. The keyboard was played by Zhoro Zdravkov, a student from grade 10 b at the high school. The school is proud of the student Ivan Velikov from grade 10 b, who participated in the new Bulgarian film “The Lessons of Blaga” which was awarded a number of prestigious world film awards. With a recital, students dressed in stylish stage costumes presented the most important characteristics of the Roma holiday, celebrated solemnly all over the world, in historical and contemporary terms. Antonio Georgiev from grade 10 a, Filiz Samid from grade 11 a, Kader Aydun from grade 11 a and Darin Atanasov from grade 11 b told about how it is celebrated in every Roma family. All participants in the program were warmly welcomed by the director of the Vocational High School of Clothing, Nutrition and Chemical Technologies “Prof. Dr. Asen Zlatarov”, Mr. Veselin Todorov.
PGSSHT
Under the title “My Friend’s Holiday” – PGSSHT celebrated the day of the Roma community Bango Vasil, which coincides with the celebration of the New Year according to the Julian calendar! Students of all ethnicities participated in the event, organized under the “Intercultural Academy” project with the financial support of the Center for Educational and Cultural Development!
For the 16th consecutive year, the Amalipe Center organized the campaign on the occasion of Vasilitsa “Let’s rebuild the bridges between us”. On January 14 and 15, 2025, hundreds of students, teachers, mediators and directors traveled to Sofia to visit various state institutions, non-governmental organizations and embassies. And the awarding of the Mediator of the Year competition was held at the Ministry of Education and Science. See more here: https://amalipe.bg/vasilitsa-2025-sofia/
The campaign “Let’s rebuild the bridges between us” was implemented within the framework of the project “Intercultural Academy for Civic Participation and Tolerance”, which is implemented with the support of the U.S. State Department through the U.S. Embassy in Bulgaria.