Not Just Bulgaria: How Other Countries Celebrate Spring with Red and White Strings

When you think of red and white threads twisted into bracelets, you probably think Martenitsa—the beloved Bulgarian symbol of health, happiness, and Baba Marta's arrival. But surprise: Bulgaria is not alone!

Our Martenitsa tradition has cousins across the Balkans and beyond. And one of the most charming versions comes from right next door—Romania and Moldova, where they celebrate something called Mărțișor.

Let’s take a look at how our neighbors welcome spring in a way that’s both familiar and uniquely their own.

Meet Mărțișor: Romania’s March Tradition

In Romania and Moldova, March 1st marks the beginning of spring with a tradition that looks a lot like ours. It is called Mărțișor (which literally means Little March) and it involves giving loved ones a red-and-white string—usually worn as a pin or brooch on the chest.

Sounds familiar? We thought so too.

But while Bulgaria has Baba Marta, Romania has Baba Dochia, another mythical grandmother figure associated with the seasons and the start of spring. Instead of Pizho and Penda dolls, the Mărțișor often features a small charm—like a snowdrop, ladybug, or lucky coin—hanging from the thread.

Fun fact: The Mărțișor tradition is so culturally significant, it was even added to the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity list, right alongside our own beloved Martenitsa!

A Shared Thread Across the Region

The red-and-white symbolism runs deep throughout Southeastern Europe:

• In North Macedonia, there’s Martinka

• In Albania, Turkey, and Greece, variations of the tradition also exist, often with their own twist

• Even in some of the Greek islands—like Rhodes and Karpathos—you’ll find red-and-white thread customs worn to ward off sunburn in early spring

Different names. Same colors. Shared joy.

Why It Matters

At Marta’s Bracelets, we are all about celebrating the beauty of the Bulgarian Martenitsa—especially our handmade crochet designs (our staple)—but we also love highlighting how connected we are through tradition.

Whether it is Pizho and Penda dancing on your wrist or a dainty snowdrop pinned to your coat, these red-and-white charms tell a shared story: the end of winter, the power of hope, and the joy of new beginnings.

Want to Celebrate in True Bulgarian Style?

While others may have similar customs, there is nothing quite like the Bulgarian Martenitsa.

Shop Handmade Crochet Martenitsa Bracelets
Explore Our Pizho & Penda Brooch Collection

From Bulgaria to Moldova, from the Danube to the Black Sea, we are all spinning the same thread—one that ties us to spring, to love, and to each other.

So go ahead, wear your Martenitsa proudly. And know that across borders, others are doing the same.