Rose

The Rose is the symbol of Bulgaria. Rose picking is one of the oldest and most traditional customs of Bulgarians. With May comes to the scent of roses and the beautiful rose-red carpet covers the fields of central Bulgaria. The Rose Valley, as the area is known, attracts thousands of visitors. Public rose-picking events are held in many villages and cities. The rituals with singing and dancing that usually take place around 9 am are usually stages. Actually, the rose picking starts around 5 am and finishes no later than 10 am. During these hours the flowers are still moist. When they dry up, it is time to go. Moreover, only the fully opened flowers are picked.

Nowadays the ritual is more commercial and is mostly held for tourists. The event is usually held around the villages near Kazanlak after 9 am but despite the unusual time it is still very beautiful and colorful. The beautiful Bulgarian girls in traditional garments stand among the fragrant roses and pose for photos.