My Horo group told me on Thursday, that I should come and seem them perform at the Bread Festival. I really had no idea what they were talking about. But being a great Peace Corps volunteer that I am, I went to the festival to mingle and see what it is. I was not disappointing. The festival was full of people from neighboring villages, all in their traditional dresses and uniforms. Every village and/or organization made bread and pitkas that looked spectacular to commemorate the virgin Mary, who's holiday was the next day. The festival included singing, Horo (performed by my group), and judging for the best looking booth which included the traditional and religious aspects. While I do not knowthe specifics of how the virgin Mary and the bread festival are connected, there is a possible connection between the pagan holiday for harvests and bread making.
"The Bread Ceremony" is an old customary way of Bulgarians greeting their foreign guests. The bread (and honey) signify the sweet hospitality provided for each and every guest. Notice that each girl is holding a loaf of bread, which would be soon given to all those who attended the festivities.
These are some of the Horos performed by my Horo Group
This is the Kyustendilsko Horo that I recently learned the steps to. Fortunately, I have 2 years to get the speed and the technique down.
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