On St. Todor's Day, which fell on March 8th this year, Bulgaria honored not only women but also horses. This holiday is celebrated on the first Saturday of Lent, hence it's called Horse Easter.
The tradition of Horse Easter has roots in deep antiquity, but it is still very popular among both residents of Bulgaria and tourists. On this day, St. Todor is asked to protect horses from diseases. People also address the saint with prayers for a warm summer and a good harvest.
In Bulgaria's main ski resort, the town of Bansko, the celebration began at the central park, where riders on richly decorated horses and colorful carriages with passengers in national costumes gathered. After the ritual of blessing the water and sprinkling it on people and animals, the cavalcade, with music and songs, proceeded to the town's main square, where the traditional feeding of horses with oats and specially baked bread for this day took place.
The celebration continued with performances by folk singers and a communal "horo" dance. It all ended with a pleasant surprise: the ladies present were presented with the first spring flowers.
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