Баба Марта

A few weeks ago I noticed small stands appearing on the streets of Sofia and in the bus and train stations. The only things being sold at these stands were bracelets of red and white yarn and small red and white yarn figures. I’ve since learned that these items are called мартеници (martenitsi), and they are exchanged on March 1st in honor of Баба Марта ("Grandmother March"). Баба Марта is a mythical figure who theoretically brings with her the end of winter and the beginning of spring. The traditions associated with Баба Марта are quite interesting and well worth reading about. You can either do a Google search for Баба Марта, or read my friends' blog about her.