Dear Friends,
On December 8, 2024, we hosted a pre-Christmas celebration titled "Winter is Coming!" that brought together over 200 of our fellow Bulgarians and international friends of Bulgaria.
The festivities began with a story about Koledarstvo—one of the most cherished and authentic Bulgarian traditions, symbolizing health, prosperity, and well-being. The talented students from the Bulgarian Sunday School "St. Ivan Rilski" in Cambridge, led by Yana Vlaeva, performed songs that filled everyone’s hearts with joy and pride in Bulgarian heritage. A special highlight was Yana Vlaeva herself, enchanting the audience with her mesmerizing voice and performance.
The hall was alive with the energy and rhythms of Bulgarian folk music, and the dances were led by our well-known folk dance clubs. Our friends from New Zealand, Japan, and Palestine added a unique flair to the evening by performing Bulgarian songs accompanied by the traditional tupan and tambura. The lively dances and festive spirit united everyone in the magic of the celebration.
One of the evening's most entertaining moments was the "Baklava of the Year" contest, which tested the judges’ taste buds to their limits. Each baklava presented was a true masterpiece, making the decision nearly impossible. The competition ended with not one but two second-place winners!
The children’s corner provided a fun space for the youngest attendees to play while the rest of us danced traditional horo. The magical guest of the evening—Santa Claus—delighted the little ones with sweet treats, making their holiday even more memorable.
As tradition dictates, everyone brought homemade dishes and drinks to share, creating a table that not only showcased the richness of Bulgarian cuisine but also symbolized the unity of our community in Cambridge.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who joined and made this event so special. Your support and presence reaffirm our mission to preserve and promote Bulgarian culture and traditions, even far from home.
We eagerly look forward to celebrating future occasions with you. Happy holidays and a joyful New Year!
Warm regards,
The Team of the "Little Bulgaria" Initiative