Bulgarian National Day
March 3, 2026, Independence Day
The Black Sea Coast doesn't quite live up to its name: the water is turquoise blue and the beaches are superb
Bulgaria's Independence Day: a country worth discovering
A public holiday of great significance for Bulgarians, March 3 marks Bulgaria's National Day. This date commemorates June 3, 1878, the day the Treaty of San Stefano was signed, which decreed the creation of the Bulgarian state after five centuries of Ottoman oppression. This day is an opportunity to learn a little more about a remarkable country, of which the French often know only the Bulgarians themselves. While economically Bulgaria is undeniably the weakest performer in the European Union, it remains a stable state where opportunities for tourism and business are plentiful. All the more so since Bulgaria, along with Romania, is the most Francophile country in Central and Eastern Europe.
History of Bulgaria's independence
Bulgaria's independence was proclaimed on September 22, 1908. After centuries of Ottoman rule, Bulgaria gained autonomy in 1878 thanks to the Treaty of San Stefano and the Treaty of Berlin, which established an autonomous principality. In 1908, Prince Ferdinand I took advantage of international tensions to declare full independence, proclaiming himself Tsar of Bulgaria. This independence was recognized by the Ottoman Empire and the European powers shortly afterward.
Importance of the national holiday for Bulgarians
Bulgaria's National Day holds great significance for Bulgarians. It commemorates the signing of the Treaty of San Stefano in 1878, which marked the end of Ottoman rule and the restoration of the Bulgarian state after nearly five centuries of occupation. For Bulgarians, this day symbolizes freedom, national independence and the honor of the sacrifices made for the country's emancipation. It is marked by official ceremonies, tributes to the heroes of liberation, and displays of national pride across the country.
Not to be missed in Bulgaria
In terms of tourism, Bulgaria has a coastline that has little to envy in neighboring Turkey's, increasingly attractive winter sports activities, remarkable nature, and many towns and villages steeped in history. Too far away to favor a trip by car or train, the country is served by several reliable low-cost airlines such as WizzAir or Ryanair.