Trifon Zarezan is a wonderful tradition. Every year, in Bulgaria, we don’t just celebrate love – or lament the lack thereof – on Valentine’s Day. We also celebrate St Trifon, the patron saint of vineyards. The day is for drinking wine and feasting. Let’s take a look at the story behind this centuries-old tradition and alternative to a day of flowers and chocolates.

Valentine’s Day might be the main event for many across the world on 14 February, be they single or coupled-up. But in Bulgaria Valentine’s Day takes a backseat to another activity;: drinking wine – and lots of it. Trifon Zarezan Day has been celebrated in the country for centuries, it is fun and a nice change from hearts and flowers!

What are the traditions on Trifon Zarezan Day?

Trifon Zarezan Day, traditionally, was the year’s first day of work on the vineyards that snake across the Bulgarian countryside. People cut the unnecessary branches from the vines at the beginning of February. The ritual often includes a Christian priest who blesses the vineyards. Saint Trifon is the guardian of the vineyards, and protector of all winemakers, so they can be sure of a good harvest after the blessing. After the ritual, the feast begins. The labourers who pruned the vines get their reward. They feast on meats, cheeses and, of course, wine. If you are in Bulgaria for Trifon Zarezan, it’s always worth checking the websites of local vineyards – some carry the tradition through to the present day. Most villages will have a celebration in the village hall too!

Who was Saint Trifon, and what is his connection to wine?

Saint Trifon was a third-century Christian martyr who lived in the Roman Empire, in present-day Turkey. He was famed as an animal healer. However, the pagan emperor Decius, ordered the beheading of Trifon in the year AD 250 for his Christian beliefs. He became a martyr and his legend lives on to this day.

One legend which may explain Saint Trifon’s association with wine – and his ties to Valentine’s Day – is the legend of his vine-pruning accident. The story goes that Saint Trifon, was  trimming and maintaining the vines of his vineyard. He observed a beautiful woman passing by the field. Trifon was enchanted by the woman and, was transfixed by her. Consequently, he snipped off a part of his nose while looking at her.

Will you celebrate Trifon Zarezan or Valentine’s Day?

Every February, the debate starts up in Bulgaria over which holiday truly belongs to 14 February. Some argue for upholding the traditions of Trifon Zazeran Day, whereas younger Bulgarians tend to choose St Valentine over St Trifon. However, Bulgarians have solved this fiery debate in recent years by a quite brilliant compromise – combining the two! Now it is not uncommon to see wine and love, celebrated equally. What a great compromise. After all, who doesn’t love to share a bottle with their special person.

To find out more about special celebrations in Bulgaria, see our Culture Blog posts. The next celebration date is Vasil Levski Day.