Halloween banned in a European city: “We choose to celebrate the light of knowledge and patriotism rather than adopt foreign customs”
A city in Bulgaria has decided to stop the celebration of Halloween in public institutions, arguing that local traditions and cultural identity must be protected. The mayor says the city will instead mark National Enlightenment Day, a holiday dedicated to preserving Bulgarian culture.
A city in Bulgaria has banned Halloween PHOTO: Pixabay
The mayor of Elin Pelin, Ivaylo Simeonov, issued a directive banning Halloween in schools, kindergartens and community centers in the municipality. The decision was announced in the context of preparations for the National Day of Enlightenment, celebrated annually on November 1, Novinite writes.
According to the municipality, this day is dedicated to the commemoration of those who contributed to the development and preservation of Bulgarian culture and spirituality. In Elin Pelin, November 1 is marked by solemn events, such as a prayer service and a torchlight procession.
A celebration of knowledge and patriotism
Every year, on November 1, the residents of Elin Pelin mark the National Day of Enlightenment with solemn events: a prayer service and a torchlight procession. Hundreds of people, students, teachers, athletes, cultural groups and members of the clergy participate in the festivities to honor patriotic values and national identity.
“National Enlightenment Day should be treated as a national holiday, as it honors those who initiated and continue to uphold the Bulgarian spirit. In Elin Pelin, we choose to celebrate the light of knowledge and patriotism rather than adopt foreign customs“, declared the mayor Simeonov.
1,000 torches for the Bulgarian tradition
This year, the municipality will organize for the ninth consecutive time the city-wide celebration, in which more than 1,000 torches will illuminate the procession route. Over the years, the event has become a symbol of intergenerational unity and respect for Bulgarian cultural heritage.
Through this initiative, the city of Elin Pelin reaffirms its desire to preserve authentic traditions, choosing “the light of knowledge” instead of the Halloween holiday.
