Bango Vasil

The Roma New Year festivities kick off, spanning three days of cultural revelry. Vasilitsa, or "Bango Vasil" among the Roma people, holds a special place as one of the most cherished family holidays.

On January 13th, the Bulgarian Roma celebrate their new year. The day, known as Vasilyovden or Bango Vasil (literally "The Limping Vasil"), is celebrated by all Roma groups in Bulgaria and is associated with many Gypsy legends, BNR reported.