A Festive Beginning
Todorovden, or Horse Easter, marks a pivotal day in Bulgaria. On the first Saturday of Great Lent, the nation honors St. Theodore Tyrone. Yet the day’s unique customs truly captivate.
A Nod to History
Rooted in both Orthodox tradition and pagan times, Todorovden celebrates renewal. Saint Todor, among six Theodores, heralds spring’s warmth. Originally a pagan rite, it welcomed summer, showcasing Bulgaria’s deep historical ties to this day.
Horses at the Heart
Dubbed Horse Easter, Todorovden’s soul lies in its equine adoration. The kushia, a horse race, stands out as the day’s centerpiece. Villagers groom their horses and adorn them with vibrant decorations before the race ensues. The victor and their horse are celebrated widely, embodying health and prosperity.
A Blend of Traditions
While men race, women engage in “female” customs. They bake horse-shaped cakes, strengthening familial bonds. Rituals abound, from first haircuts to ensuring brides’ integration into families. Each act, from maidenly games to sharing ritual bread, weaves the fabric of Todorovden’s rich tapestry.
A Meal of Significance
The day’s fare includes delicious yeast pie, mushroom soup, and “Tudor lentils.” The celebration venerates the horse, with grooming rituals and blessings intertwined with communal feasting.
A Living Tradition
Though modernity has altered many customs, Todorovden thrives. Cities and villages alike burst into life with races and festivities. Remarkably, over 130,000 Bulgarians continue to embrace this spirited holiday, keeping the tradition alive.
Todorovden encapsulates Bulgaria’s reverence for tradition, community, and the symbolic ushering of spring. It’s a day where history, culture, and celebration converge, creating a vivid spectacle of national pride.
Interestingly, the Orthodox Christian liturgical calendar indirectly influences Todorovden’s exact date in the year. It is celebrated on the first Saturday of Great Lent. While its date is indirectly related to Easter because the timing of Great Lent itself depends on Easter, Todorovden follows a more specific placement within the Lenten season.
See the other Bulgarian holidays influenced by the Julian calendar.
