The Festival of the Folk Costume in Zheravna is an annual festival which celebrates traditional Bulgarian culture. Attendees must wear traditional attire, Bulgarian or other, with many wearing authentic costumes, often over 100 years old and passed down several generations. It is hosted on Dobromeritsa, a scenic pine forest situated atop a hill at the foot of the Balkan Mountains.

The festival does not allow the use of phones and other modern comforts, providing a much-needed break from the mundane of 21st century life. 

This year’s edition marked 150 years from the April Uprising against Ottoman rule, which was commemorated by the lighting of candles at the opening ceremony, and on Saturday night at the lighting of the festival fire.

It was a true honour to be part of the small team of photographers this year and have the opportunity to capture the diversity of Bulgarian folklore and traditions. I am incredibly grateful to the PR team, the organisers, the Bulgare Foundation, my fellow photographers, and the people of the festival who trusted me to photograph them.