Supporting the Culture and Traditions of Ethnic Communities in the Republic of Moldova: The Bulgarian Holiday “Trifon Zarezan” in the Village of Corten
The Center for Civil Initiatives for National Minorities supported the celebration of the wine and vine growers’ holiday “Trifon Zarezan” in the Bulgarian village of Corten.
The event took place under the slogan “Remembering and Honoring Our Traditions,” as in recent years, young Bessarabian Bulgarians in the Republic of Moldova have begun to forget about this ancient holiday, and in some places, they have stopped celebrating it altogether.
The event was attended by: the Minister of Agriculture of the Republic of Moldova - Vladimir Bolea; the Minister of Energy - Victor Parlicov (an ethnic Bulgarian); Member of Parliament - Natalia Davidovici (an ethnic Bulgarian); U.S. Ambassador - Kent Logsdon; Bulgarian Ambassador - Maya Dobreva; and representatives from other embassies and international organizations.
History of the Holiday:
The holiday is named after Saint Trifon, who is revered as the patron of vine growers and winemakers. According to legends, Saint Trifon was a peasant with healing gifts and was honored as the protector of vineyards and a defender against plant diseases. In various regions of Bulgaria, the holiday has its own characteristics, but it is generally celebrated with joy and happiness, and winemakers thank the saint for the harvest.
Customs and Traditions:
•Pruning the Vines: On the day of the holiday, vine growers gather in their vineyards to prune the vines. This ritual symbolizes health and a bountiful harvest. After pruning, the vines are tied into bundles, which are then kept in the home for protection against evil spirits.
•Festive Rituals: In some regions, vine growers may perform rituals to call for rain and fertility. For instance, it is customary to bring a vine to the center of the village or town, where it is smoked and blessed.
•Wine and Treats: The holiday cannot be imagined without wine. Winemakers offer guests their own wine, and traditional Bulgarian dishes accompany the feasts. There are often games, dances, and songs during the celebration.
The event concluded with a grand concert featuring Bulgarian, Moldovan, and Ukrainian ensembles.
The Center for Civil Initiatives for National Minorities supported the event by funding artists, a tent city, media promotion, and a promotional video for the holiday.
For us, it is important to preserve and promote the national holidays of ethnic communities.
VIDEO - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R-xEL4gDE04
