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September 2026 Holidays in Bulgaria

September is a month of new beginnings — the school year starts with a ceremonial "first school day" on September 15th, and on September 22nd, Bulgaria's Independence Day is celebrated. Autumn name days and Christian holidays round out the calendar.

What to Celebrate

8
Nativity of the Virgin MaryReligious

On September 8th, the Nativity of the Virgin Mary is celebrated. A major name day for those with names connected to the Theotokos.

22
Independence DayNational

On September 22nd, Bulgaria celebrates Independence Day — the declaration of full independence from the Ottoman Empire in 1908.

14
Krastavden (Exaltation of the Holy Cross)Religious

The Day of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross (September 14th). Name day for Krastyo, Krastina and derivatives. Traditionally considered the end of summer.

Cultural Context

September 15th is a deeply emotional date for every Bulgarian family — first-graders meet their first school day with flowers, teachers receive gifts, and florists make their annual revenue. Independence Day (September 22nd) marks the declaration of full independence of the Third Bulgarian Kingdom from the Ottoman Empire in 1908 in Veliko Tarnovo.

Full September holiday list →

Frequently Asked Questions

▶When does the school year start in Bulgaria?
The school year in Bulgaria traditionally starts on September 15th. The first day of school is a ceremonial event where students bring flowers for their teachers. If September 15th falls on a Sunday, the start is moved to Monday.
▶What is celebrated on September 22nd?
September 22nd is Bulgaria's Independence Day. On this date in 1908 in Veliko Tarnovo, the full independence of the Third Bulgarian Kingdom from the Ottoman Empire was declared. It is an official public holiday.
▶What is Krastavden and what customs are associated with it?
Krastavden (September 14th) is the Day of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross. In Bulgarian tradition, it marks the end of summer — after Krastavden, days become shorter and weather cooler. Name day for Krastyo, Krastina, and Stavri.