Karnobat marks its town holiday today, September 26, which is also the feast day of the town's patron saint, St John the Theologian. Celebrations began this morning with a church service at St John the Theologian church and run through the weekend.

Residents and visitors turned out for the service, held for the health and wellbeing of local people. The main square hosted the official opening of Karnobat Day.

In his address to residents, mayor Georgi Dimitrov spoke about the tie between generations and people's choice to stay in their hometown. Karnobat needs to grow so children can see their future here, he said.

"Karnobat is all of us — through our work, through choosing to stay, to build and to change things," Dimitrov said. He linked the holiday to St John the Theologian's message of love for one's neighbor, which he said should show up in real actions.

Dimitrov opened the 11th Balkan Arts Festival last night. Performers included the Soprano Trio, the Pirin Ensemble, Kristina Dimitrova, Iskren Petsov and Krisko, playing to an audience spanning several generations. The lineup features acts from four countries — Bulgaria, Turkey, Serbia and Romania — across several stages over three days.

At the opening, the mayor recalled the old Karnobat fairs, which once drew traders, musicians, locals and visitors from far and wide. He said the town sits at a natural crossroads of people, cultures and ethnic groups, and the festival is built on the idea that different traditions can share one stage without losing what makes them distinct.

"Let's not be afraid to dream, and let's turn those dreams into a future together," Dimitrov said. In past September 26 speeches, he has talked about community and about people finding what brings them together.

Today, Treti Mart square, the town park and the cultural center are hosting folk performances, children's events, exhibitions, theatre and events tied to local traditions. Nelly Petkova and Vanessa and Thomas will sing on the main stage tonight, with concerts running late. Visitors are expected from across the region.

Running alongside the festival is the national contest "With the Songs of Stayka Gyokova," honoring the musical legacy of the Karnobat folk singer.

Tomorrow, Mihaela Marinova will perform on Treti Mart square, followed by Agatangelos and his band.