Podcast in English
Text size
Bulgarian National Radio © 2025 All Rights Reserved

On August 2, Bulgarians mark Day of Saint Elijah according to old style calendar

Photo: Archive

On August 2, Bulgarians homage to Prophet St. Elijah according to the old style calendar. The day is marked on July 20 according to the new style. Prophet Elijah was one of the greatest Old Testament figures, an ardent opponent of paganism and a herald of the true faith in God. 

Many Christian churches especially in Southwestern Bulgaria are named after him. The faithful honor the saint who is the patron of thunder and lightning and protector of the harvest from fires.

St. Elijah’s Day or popularly known as Ilinden in Bulgarian is the best-loved summertime feast day in the long and sultry days of harvesting. 

St. Elijah’s day is a day celebrated by all people named Iliya, Ilian, Iliana and their derivatives – Ilka, Lina, Licho etc. 



Последвайте ни и в Google News Showcase, за да научите най-важното от деня!
Listen to the daily news from Bulgaria presented in "Bulgaria Today" podcast, available in Spotify.

More from category

“The Virgin Mary” Arbanasi Monastery

Tracing Albanian ancestry in the Arbanasi architectural reserve

The Arbanasi architectural reserve near Veliko Tarnovo is one of the most popular tourist destinations . The medieval monasteries and churches, including the Church of the Nativity, are particularly attractive. The churches of Arbanasi are museum sites..

published on 12/27/24 8:55 AM

St. Stephen – the first Christian martyr

On the third day of Christmas, December 27, the Bulgarian Orthodox Church commemorates the memory of Saint Stephen, the first Christian martyr. His name means "crown" or "wreath" and comes from the Greek "στέφανος" (stéphanos). It symbolizes victory..

published on 12/27/24 5:10 AM
Hannukah celebration in the central Sofia synagogue

From December 25 to January 2, Jewish people in Bulgaria and around the world will light Hanukkah candles

At sunset on December 25, the Jewish community begins to celebrate Hanukkah. The holiday begins on the 25th day of the Jewish month of Kislev in the Hebrew calendar and, depending on the year, can fall in November or December.  By lighting 9..

published on 12/25/24 10:35 AM