Ivo

In a jubilant commemoration, Bulgarians across the nation honor Saint John the Forerunner and Baptist, marking the revered day of Ivanovden, following the Epiphany.

Today holds profound significance within the Bulgarian Orthodox Church as it pays homage to Saint John's pivotal role, particularly his Baptism of Christ, an event central to his life and legacy.

Today, after Epiphany, the Orthodox Church celebrates the Council of St. Prophet John the Forerunner and Baptist. The day is popular as Ivanovden in Bulgaria (Ivan's Day) and is among the holidays with the largest number people who have a name day in our country - over 347 thousand.

Maribor – The Škofja Loka Passion Play, a Jernej Lorenci-directed production of the early 18th century rhymed-verse parable of human salvation, won the main prize at the 57th Maribor Theatre Festival on Sunday, along with the award for best music.

Zoran Milanovic said on Monday that his decision to return state honours to Branimir Glavas was legally sound, even though he is on trial for alleged war crimes.

"Glavas asked for this, he sent a request, because he has been formally unconvinced for five years. If he had not asked me, I wouldn't have interfered," Milanovic told media.

Bulgarians with the name Ivan (and its derivatives) are celebrating St John the Baptist, or Ivanovden as it is locally known, on January 7.