St Nicholas Day In Bulgaria

Our family celebrated with a feast of fish on Sunday although the trip to the church was put off as we had a bit of a hangover from the party the might before. The tradition goes on every year here in Bulgaria and another important day in the calendar for celebration, reflection and feasting. It is such a privilege to be part of this year in year out unaffected in this instance with commercialism and western materialistic influence. By the way no one cares too much about it being Bankers' Day other than bankers and their's a word that rhymes with bankers that describes them very well.

Bulgarian fishermen, sailors and bankers are celebrating on December 6 their common patron, Christian St Nicholas.

According to Christian orthodox mythology, St Nicholas is roaming the seas and helping ships that might be in trouble. He is also believed to be the master of sea winds.

The traditional Nikulden dish is oven-baked carp, stuffed with rice, walnuts, raisins and herbs. Bulgarian tradition requires for the fishbones to be then reduced to ashes, buried underground or thrown down a river. This ritual is believed to bring well-being to the family.

Meanwhile, people named Nikolay, Nikola and Nikolina invite friends and family members to big Name’s Day parties.

Source: www.bulgariagazette.com