November 2026 Holidays in Bulgaria
November opens with two important holidays: November 1st — the Day of the National Enlighteners — and Archangelovden on November 8th. The Day of the Enlighteners is a unique national holiday dedicated to those who preserved the Bulgarian spirit, language, and culture through the centuries.
What to Celebrate
On November 1st, Bulgaria honours its national enlighteners — writers, teachers, clergy, and revolutionaries who preserved the Bulgarian spirit and culture. Official public holiday.
One of the most widely celebrated name days — November 8th. Those named Mihail, Angel, Angelina, Gavrail, Archangel and many derivatives celebrate. Also a day for remembering the deceased.
Presentation of the Most Holy Theotokos to the Temple (November 21st).
Name day for Andrey, Andreya, Andreyana (November 30th). In folk tradition, women boil corn and beans for health — known as "Bear's Day".
Cultural Context
The Day of the National Enlighteners (November 1st) is among the most unique holidays worldwide — Bulgaria is one of few countries with a special day honouring its enlightenment figures. Archangelovden (November 8th) is the second most widely celebrated name day in the country — those named Archangel, Mihail, Angel, Angelina, Gavrail, and many derivatives celebrate. In folk tradition, Archangel Michael guides the souls of the deceased, so the day is also associated with remembrance of the dead.