Bulgarians in Budapest celebrate Babinden and babies born in 2025

On 25 January, the Bulgarian Cultural Centre became a hub of tradition, memory and community as the local Bulgarian diaspora celebrated Babinden, one of the country's most heartfelt holidays. This holiday honours the women who, in the past, helped mothers give birth.

Despite being far from home, the Bulgarian community in the Hungarian capital demonstrated that customs endure across distances. This year’s celebration focused on children born in 2025, who were formally welcomed with blessings and smiles, taking centre stage as symbols of the future and the continuity of the Bulgarian diaspora, according to Bulgarian Denitsa Urge, who shared photos from the event.

The day also featured a culinary contest in which women from the community prepared traditional Bulgarian starters, main courses and desserts. A special jury assessed authenticity, taste, and skill, announcing a winner by the end of the festivities.

In keeping with tradition, men did not attend — Babinden remains a celebration dedicated to women’s care, strength, and the intergenerational transmission of culture. Amidst laughter, shared memories and the aromas of childhood, the event emphasised how preserving traditions helps to maintain a community’s identity. The Bulgarian spirit, carried far from home, lives on in its children and women, and in the warmth of the diaspora family gathered together.

Editor: Lubomir Kolarov

Posted in English by E. Radkova