St Sophia’s Day and Sofia Day: Bulgaria’s Capital Celebrates Its Patron Saints and City Festival

On September 17, the Orthodox Church honours the Holy Great Martyrs Faith, Hope and Love and their mother Sophia. The day also marks the celebration of Sofia Day in Bulgaria’s capital. Following a decision by the Sofia Municipal Council in 1992, the city has officially celebrated its day on this date. Sofia takes its name from the Church of St Sophia, the basilica that is one of the oldest functioning churches in Europe.

A rich programme of events has been prepared to mark the occasion.

At a ceremonial session of the Sofia Municipal Council, the honorary citizenship awards were presented to the city’s new “Honorary Citizens of Sofia.”

In front of St Sophia Church, a ceremony was held to raise the city’s flag, followed by a water-blessing service conducted by His Holiness Patriarch Daniil.

The Largo, in the heart of Sofia, will be transformed into a large-scale stage for light art. The LUNAR Festival will present a special edition, “The Lights of Sofia,” running from September 17 to 20.

During the same period, Sofia will host festive concerts, theatre performances, exhibitions, educational games and workshops for children.

The celebrations will also offer a chance to travel back in time aboard a vintage tram. The rides will depart at 4 p.m., 5 p.m., 6 p.m. and 7 p.m., following the route from Nadezhda Overpass to Journalist Square.

On Sofia Day, the Sofia City Art Gallery and the Regional History Museum – Sofia will offer free admission to all visitors.

The festive calendar also includes theatre premieres and festival events.

More information about all events is available at artsofia.bg.