July Morning: A Uniquely Bulgarian Celebration of Sunrise and Freedom

Every year, as the first day of July dawns, Bulgarians gather along the seashore to welcome the sunrise in a tradition known as July Morning. Despite its name sounding foreign, this holiday is a uniquely Bulgarian celebration, part of the country's recent history, particularly influenced by the hippie movement of the 1980s. The tradition, which started in Varna, reflects a blend of rebellion, unity, and a profound connection with nature, making it a distinct and cherished part of Bulgarian heritage.

The tradition of July Morning began in the 1980s when a group of young people, influenced by the global hippie movement, started gathering at the breakwater in Varna to play guitars, sing, and stay up all night to greet the sunrise on July 1st. These gatherings, initially small and intimate, were fueled by a desire for freedom and a break from the rigidities of everyday life. Over time, the custom grew in popularity, drawing more participants each year who sought to experience the magic of the sunrise reflected on the sea, symbolizing a new beginning and a moment of spiritual cleansing.

Although the holiday's name is derived from the English rock song "July Morning" by Uriah Heep, its origins and traditions are entirely Bulgarian. The song, with its themes of hope and renewal, resonated with the local youth, who adopted it as an anthem for their sunrise gatherings. The tradition eventually expanded beyond Varna, with celebrations spreading to various coastal and inland locations across Bulgaria.

Kamen Bryag, a coastal village in northeastern Bulgaria, has become one of the most iconic places to celebrate July Morning. Known for being the easternmost point on the Bulgarian Black Sea coast, it is the first to be illuminated by the sun's rays. The...