Posts by Iva
Celebrating Halloween With Our Crochet Family Tradition
Halloween is not a traditional Bulgarian holiday, but since moving to the United States our family has enjoyed embracing the local celebrations. My daughter, who was born here, absolutely loves the season — pumpkins, costumes, and everything a little bit spooky. Naturally, our crochet finds its way into this holidays too. I first learned to…
Read MoreHow to Wear Martenitsa: Tradition and Modern Styles
Each year as March arrives, Bulgarians welcome spring with a meaningful tradition. Red and white Martenitsa bracelets are exchanged among family and friends as symbols of health, happiness, and new beginnings. Whether you are deeply rooted in this cultural practice or just discovering it, there are many beautiful ways to wear Martenitsa that honor tradition…
Read MoreWhat Is Baba Marta? The Story Behind the Tradition
In Bulgaria the arrival of March brings with it a cherished celebration that has been passed down for centuries. It is called Baba Marta and it is one of the most colorful and joyful traditions in Bulgarian culture. At the heart of this tradition are Martenitsas, which can be in the form os brooches or…
Read MoreNot Just Bulgaria: How Other Countries Celebrate Spring with Red and White Strings
When you think of red and white threads twisted into bracelets, you probably think Martenitsa—the beloved Bulgarian symbol of health, happiness, and Baba Marta’s arrival. But surprise: Bulgaria is not alone! Our Martenitsa tradition has cousins across the Balkans and beyond. And one of the most charming versions comes from right next door—Romania and Moldova,…
Read MoreWhy Bulgarians Wear Red and White on March 1st (And Why You Might Want to, Too)
If you never heard of Baba Marta and her magical March 1st traditions, you are in for a treat—a red-and-white, yarn-spun kind of treat that has been bringing luck, health, and joy to Bulgarians for centuries. Welcome to the world of Martenitsa—a small but powerful charm that holds the warmth of spring, the strength of…
Read More