The Bulgarian tradition of “July Morning” – the celebration of the free spirit

On July 1 every year, Bulgarians mark “July Morning” – the day that brings the free-spirited together.

Thousands of people gathered in various places in Bulgaria to watch the sun rise on the 1st day of July.

As part of the tradition, the largest number of people gather along the Bulgarian Black Sea coast.

The first sun rays are usually met with Uriah Heep’s song ‘July Morning’. People gather around fires, sharing drinks and playing music, while they wait for the sunrise.

The "July Morning" tradition dates back to the hippie period in the 1970s and 1980s and originated as a protest against the restrictions of the communist regime. The meeting of the sunrise was a symbol of meeting a new beginning and a better future. Nowadays, this meaning is lost, but the sun worship as a symbol of a new beginning in life motivates young people to keep the tradition live. The day has become popular as a celebration of the free spirit for which the sky is the limit.

As part of the tradition, the biggest crowd usually gathers at the coastal village of Kamen Bryag, that has become emblematic of July morning, but the municipality announced that this year the event is cancelled due to the coronavirus epidemic.

Bourgas municipality organised a concert on the Black Sea close to the central beach bridge.

Another seaside municipality, Shabla, also had a concert.