In Bulgaria, a rose in a special honor. In the valleys south of Stara Planina, oil rose has been grown since ancient times, from which rose oil was made, known far beyond the borders of Bulgaria. That is why the rose is one of the main symbols of the country, and, of course, therefore, the Rose Festival is held here every three days.
A lot of songs are folded about the rose, it is present as a constant attribute in the summer national rites of the Bulgarians, in folk embroideries, it was painted by all artists. The oil of the Bulgarian oil rose is famous for its qualities around the world.
All this prompted the citizens of Kazanlyk and Karlovo to alternately organize the Rosa Festival in late May — early June. In the last century, the tradition of these festivals was either renewed or quiet again, but the chronicle says that the first Rose Festival was held in 1903 in Karlovo. Needless to say, the days of these festivals over the years have become the holidays of Karlovo and Kazanlyk, attracting tourists both from Bulgaria and from abroad.
The festival begins in an open field, at the plantings of the oil rose, where ritual collection of pink petals is carried out, from which wreaths are later tied. Gradually, the holiday is transferred to the city center, where everything is ready for the start of a rich cultural program.
Usually, the festival days are timed to see the country's folklore ensembles, processions of cookers, captives of artists and photographers, sporting events, as well as concerts of young performers. In the open air, masters of traditional folk crafts make colorful jugs, weave carpets or treat guests with freshly baked cakes.
These days, all the cultural attractions of the city and its environs are open to visitors. Of these, the Kazan tomb-kurgan, built during the time of ancient Thrace, is more popular.
The highlight of the Rose Festival program is the Queen's contest ( Queen ) Roses. This competition was first held in 1975, when the schoolgirl Stefka Kharlova became the queen.
On the day of the event, the whole city usually flows into the street where the Rosa Parade is held. To the music of songs and dances are held along the main street of Kazanlyka or Karlovo, residents and guests of the city dressed up in costumes of Roman, Thracian and ancient Greek times. And a group of guys on special stretchers in the form of a throne carries last year's Queen Rosa, seen by pink wreaths. She showers those present with petal rain.
The holiday, as a rule, ends in late evening with a big dance of choro, in which all those present take part.