Koledouvane

Koledouvane

December 24-25Koledouvane is the ritual singing of Christmas carols that takes place in Bulgaria each year on December 24 and 25. The koledari, or "carol singers," go from house to house and wish people good health and prosperity. Although their dress and ornaments differ from region to region, the koledarka, a long oak stick covered with elaborate carving, is a traditional accessory.
A similar ritual, called Sourvakari, is carried out on New Year's Day. Those who go from house to house wishing people a Happy New Year carry a decorated dogwood twig, which they use to tap people on the back as they deliver their good wishes. The near coincidence of the two customs can probably be explained by the switch from the Julian to the Gregorian calendar. They have survived as separate celebrations, even though they are closely related in meaning.
SOURCES:
BkFest-1937, p. 73
EncyChristmas-2003, p. 92
FolkWrldHol-1999, p. 720