Vinegrower's Day

Vinegrower's Day

February 14This pre-harvest vineyard festival in Bulgaria involves pruning the vines and sprinkling them with wine. Ritual songs and dances are performed in hopes of a plentiful grape harvest. In some areas, a "Vine King" is crowned with a wreath of twigs from the vineyards. Everyone treats him with great respect, for it is believed that fertility depends on the King's happiness.
Participation in the Trifon Zarezan festivities is something that both locals and foreign tourists look forward to. Visits to well-known Bulgarian vineyards are organized, the vines are pruned, and guests are given an opportunity to sample the local wine and foods.
See also St. Tryphon's Day
CONTACTS:
National Information and Advertising Center
1 St. Sofia Str.
Sofia, 1000 Bulgaria
359-2-987-9778; fax: 359-2-987-9778
www.mi.government.bg/eng/index.html
SOURCES:
AnnivHol-2000, p. 27
(c)