vBansko is preparing for the winter season — you are viewing an early version that is updated daily. Official start December 2026

Learn more
It is 26° in Bansko now. mostly cloudy
It is 26° in Bansko now. mostly cloudy
Todorovden — Procession · Bansko
February · Horse Easter

Todorovden
Procession

Bansko, · A Centuries-Old Tradition

A festive Horse Easter procession featuring community folklore ensembles from the Nikola Vaptsarov Cultural Centre, local horse owners, and all residents and guests of Bansko.

Tradition CULTURAL CENTRE Horses Free Admission
Month February
Start Time 11:00 a.m.
Admission Free
Organiser Nikola Vaptsarov Community Cultural Centre

About the Festival

Todorovden is one of the most revered spring holidays in Bulgaria, celebrated six weeks before Easter. Also known as Horse Easter, it is dedicated to horses—animals that hold a sacred place in Bulgarian history and folklore. In Bansko, this ancient tradition is kept alive through a grand procession, a holy water blessing, the ritual feeding of the horses, and vibrant folk celebrations.

Programme

10:30 CHURCH
Holy Trinity Church Service A solemn morning service to mark the beginning of Todorovden.
11:00 Street
Holy Water Blessing on Tsar Simeon St (by the Stadium) The official opening featuring a traditional water-blessing ritual. Gathering of horse owners and enthusiasts.
11:30 Procession
Festive Town Procession The parade of horses and participants follows the traditional route to the central square.
12:00 Town Square
Ritual feeding of horses and folk revelry At Nikola Vaptsarov Square: featuring the traditional feeding ritual, live folklore performances, and town-wide festivities.

Procession route

From the Stadium to Nikola Vaptsarov Square
Tsar Simeon St → Bulgaria St → Todor Kableshkov St → Nayden Gerov St → Ikonom Chuchulayn St → Roundabout → Nikola Vaptsarov Square

Square Stage Programme

🎤
Ivana and Ivona Malchovi Singers
🎶
Katya Yunchova Singer
🎵
Michaela Boyadzhiyska Singer
💃
"Banski Fukli" Folklore Ensemble
🕺
"Meraklii" Amateur Folklore Group
🪗
Lazeto & Band Orchestra

Explore More in Bansko

📅
Events Calendar Explore all upcoming local events or list your own to reach a wider audience. View Calendar →
🎉
Festivals & Events A comprehensive guide to all music, cultural, and sporting festivals in Bansko and the region. View All →

FAQs

When exactly is Todorovden?
Todorovden falls on the first Saturday of Great Lent (six weeks before Easter). The exact date changes every year, falling either in February or March.
Can anyone join the procession?
Yes! All residents and visitors of Bansko are more than welcome to join the procession and the street festivities. Admission is free.
Are horse races (kushii) organized?
In Bansko, the tradition focuses on a grand ceremonial procession rather than competitive races (kushii), ensuring both owners and horses can fully experience the festive spirit of Horse Easter.
Come and Celebrate With Us! Free Admission · Bansko · Nikola Vaptsarov Square
Learn more