Baba Marta

Baba Marta is a favorite figure in Bulgarian folklore. Its name comes from the name of the month “of March”. She is either smiling sunny and well-intentioned, or she brings evil and cold.

With Baba Marta and the month of March are connected many customs and festivals related to the coming spring. The most famous of these is decorating people and young animals with martenitsi (twisted white and red thread) on 1st March when Baba Marta arrives. It is believed that the one who wears martenitsa throughout the year will be red and white, alive and well. Martenitsas аrе removed when the first stork is seen and are tied up to a tree.

Throughout the month are held rituals and ceremonies associated with cleaning, chasing of evil forces, chasing of snakes and lizards as well as predictions for the future of young people.

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