Traditional Bulgarian custom called "Lazaruvane"

Lazarus Saturday is the first of three major Christian feasts linked to the miracle of Resurrection and is followed by Palm Sunday and Easter. It is marked on the Saturday preceding the Holy Week. Lazarus Saturday or Lazarovden in Bulgarian bears the name of Lazarus, who was brought back from the dead through the miracle of resurrection and Christ clearly manifested Himself as Lord of Life and Death. In folk beliefs, Christ's resurrection intertwines with the idea of ​​the spring revival of nature for new life. That's why Lazarovden is a feast of green forests, fields and pastures.

Traditionally on this day, wreaths of willow branches decorate the doors of homes on Palm Sunday. The most typical Bulgarian custom for this day is called “lazaruvane.” From early morning young unmarried girls called ‘Lazarki’ go from home to home, dancing and singing, wishing for love, good health and fertility. In the past there was a belief that a girl who had not participated in the custom would not get married, so it was obligatory for every teenage girl in a village to take part in the rituals. The special songs dedicated to Lazarus Saturday are not performed on any other day of the year as it was considered bad luck. Upon entering the house, the ‘lazarki’ sing songs for each member of the family. The host gives the girls coins as a symbol of the wish for strong health during the year.