The traditional folk calendar marks July 25 as a symbolic day dedicated to Summer Saint Anna – a holiday with rich cultural symbolism that preserves a spiritual connection with the past in the western regions of Bulgaria.
Despite the lack of official state recognition, local communities in the Plovdiv region and small settlements continue to maintain a living tradition. The holiday is distinguished by shared beliefs about fertility, health, and protection, especially for pregnant women and newlyweds.
In different parts of Western Bulgaria, symbolic rituals are performed: placing wreaths before the icon of Saint Anna, prayer services, and distribution of ritual bread. Traditionally, there is also a specific prohibition on performing household activities such as sewing, washing, or cutting, as they are considered a potential source of misfortune.
The holiday preserves its local identity and cultural significance, continuing to be a living element of folk memory and spiritual practices. Although not marked in the official calendar, Summer Saint Anna remains an important symbol of cultural heritage and traditional worldview.