Why Bulgarians Wear Red and White on March 1st (And Why You Might Want to, Too)
If you never heard of Baba Marta and her magical March 1st traditions, you are in for a treat—a red-and-white, yarn-spun kind of treat that has been bringing luck, health, and joy to Bulgarians for centuries.
Welcome to the world of Martenitsa—a small but powerful charm that holds the warmth of spring, the strength of family, and a whole lot of heart.
A Thread That Ties Us All Together
Each year on March 1st, Bulgarians wrap red-and-white bracelets around their wrists or pin them to their clothing. But this is not just about style (though, let us be honest, they are adorable). These Martenitsi are ancient symbols of health, happiness, and good fortune, and they mark the arrival of Baba Marta—Grandmother March—a fiery old lady who brings the transition from winter to spring.
The tradition is more than 1300 years old and rooted in the story of Khan Asparuh, founder of the Bulgarian state. According to legend, he sent a message of hope and unity to his sister, Hubba, via a falcon. That falcon was wounded, and its blood dyed the white thread tied to its leg. Thus, the red-and-white Martenitsa was born—a symbol of strength, love, and unbreakable bonds.
When his sister finally joined him in the new land, Khan Asparuh tore bits of the red-stained thread and tied them to his soldiers wrists, saying:
“The thread that is connecting us should never be interrupted. Let us be healthy, cheerful, happy. Let us be BULGARIANS.”
Mic drop.
The Meaning Behind the Colors
Traditionally, white stood for masculine energy—power, strength, and bravery. But over time, white has come to represent joy, peace, and purity. Red is the color of life—feminine energy, vitality, birth, love, and fire. When woven together, they create a harmony of opposites that is both beautiful and symbolic.
When to Wear It—And When to Let It Go
You wear your Martenitsa starting March 1st and keep it on until you spot a stork, a swallow, or a blooming tree. Then, you make a wish and either tie it to a branch or tuck it under a stone. (It is basically the Slavic version of a New Year resolution, but prettier and way more poetic.)
Meet Pijo and Penda: The OG Couple Goals
There is even a romantic twist to the tradition. According to Bulgarian folklore, Pijo—a rosy-cheeked, kind-hearted young man—and Penda—a modest, pale-skinned beauty—fell in love and got married in a celebration that united villages. Their love was so powerful that it lives on today through the red-and-white figures that represent them.
Their story reminds us that love, humility, and kindness are timeless. And let us be real—who could not use a bit more of that?
Bring the Tradition to Life
At Marta’s Bracelets, we honor this beautiful heritage with our handmade crochet Martenitsa bracelets—crafted with care, love, and a touch of spring magic.
Browse our Martenitsa Collection Shop Handmade Crochet Bracelets
Whether you are Bulgarian by blood, spirit, or simply fascinated by meaningful traditions, wearing a Martenitsa is a beautiful way to connect with something bigger than yourself.
So go ahead—tie one on. Make a wish. And let the good fortune begin.
Want more stories like this? Stick around. At Marta’s Bracelets, tradition is not old—it is evergreen.