Martenitsa – Traditional Bulgarian Red and White Bracelets

Martenitsa are traditional red and white Bulgarian adornments worn at the beginning of March to celebrate the arrival of spring, health, and good fortune.

At March Miracles, you can buy authentic Martenitsa inspired by this centuries-old tradition, made to be worn, gifted, and shared in the same spirit as in Bulgaria.

Browse my handmade Martenitsa below. All items are crafted in the UK by me, using traditional red and white designs, with UK delivery only.

What Is a Martenitsa?

A Martenitsa (Мартеница) is a traditional Bulgarian symbol made from red and white threads, worn from 1 March to mark the beginning of spring.

It is deeply connected to Bulgarian folklore and is believed to bring health, happiness, and protection to the person wearing it.

Martenitsa are traditionally worn on the wrist, pinned to clothing, or tied to bags and coats.

The custom is observed by people of all ages and is one of the most recognisable and cherished Bulgarian traditions.

The plural form, Martenitsi or Martenici (Мартеници), refers to the many different styles and forms these adornments can take.

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The Meaning of Red and White in Martenitsa

The colours of the Martenitsa are not decorative — they are symbolic.

Red represents life, strength, vitality, and protection.

White symbolises purity, renewal, hope, and new beginnings.

Woven together, the red and white threads reflect balance and harmony, expressing the wish for a healthy and prosperous year ahead. This symbolism is central to the tradition and is why authentic Martenitsa always feature both colours.

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Baba Marta and the Arrival of Spring

Martenitsa are closely linked to Baba Marta (Grandmother March), a legendary figure in Bulgarian folklore.

Baba Marta is said to bring the changing weather of March — sometimes warm and sunny, sometimes cold and unpredictable.

Wearing a Martenitsa is believed to please Baba Marta and encourage her to bring an early and gentle spring.

The tradition begins on 1 March and continues until the wearer sees the first stork, swallow, or blossoming tree — signs that spring has truly arrived.

At that point, the Martenitsa is traditionally removed and tied to a branch or placed under a stone, completing the ritual.

The tradition is widely recognised in Bulgarian folklore and culture.

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Choosing the Right Martenitsa

Martenitsa come in many forms, and choosing the right one often depends on who it is for and how it will be worn.

• Bracelets are the most popular and are worn daily throughout March.
• Tassels or figures are often pinned to clothing or coats.
• Children’s Martenitsa are usually lighter and more playful in design.
• Gift Martenitsa are commonly exchanged between family members, friends, and colleagues as a gesture of goodwill.

Authenticity matters. A true Martenitsa respects the traditional colours, symbolism, and purpose of the custom rather than treating it as a fashion accessory alone.

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Martenitsa in the UK

For Bulgarians living in the UK, Martenitsa remain an important way to stay connected to home and tradition.

Wearing or gifting a Martenitsa is a reminder of shared heritage, cultural identity, and the arrival of spring — no matter where you are.

March Miracles exists to honour that tradition, making it easy to buy meaningful Martenitsa while respecting their cultural significance.

Learn more about the story behind March Miracles and our connection to traditional spring customs.

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The UK destination for buying authentic Martenitsa

Buying Authentic Martenitsa in the UK

March Miracles specialises in traditional Martenitsa handmade in the UK for the Bulgarian community and for anyone wishing to celebrate Baba Marta with meaning and respect.

Each Martenitsa is crafted using the traditional red and white colours and follows the cultural symbolism of the custom.

By buying from a UK-based maker, you receive your Martenitsa quickly and reliably while supporting careful, small-scale craftsmanship rooted in tradition rather than mass-produced novelty items.

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Martenitsa – Frequently Asked Questions

What does a Martenitsa symbolise?

A Martenitsa symbolises health, happiness, protection, and the renewal of life at the start of spring.

When do you wear a Martenitsa?

A Martenitsa is traditionally worn from 1 March until the first signs of spring appear, such as a stork, swallow, or blossoming tree.

When should a Martenitsa be removed?

Once spring has arrived, the Martenitsa is removed and traditionally tied to a tree branch or placed under a stone.

Can non-Bulgarians wear Martenitsa?

Yes. While deeply rooted in Bulgarian culture, Martenitsa are often shared with friends of all backgrounds as a symbol of goodwill and health.

What is the Bulgarian word for Martenitsa?

In Bulgarian Cyrillic, Martenitsa is written as Мартеница, and the plural form is Мартеници.

Is Martenitsa a good gift?

Yes. Martenitsa are traditionally given as gifts to wish someone health, happiness, and good fortune for the coming year.

How to Buy Martenitsa from March Miracles

Buying your Martenitsa is simple.

Browse the collection, choose the design that suits you, add it to your cart, and complete checkout securely.

The range includes traditional and gift-ready designs at accessible prices, making it easy to find a meaningful Martenitsa for yourself or for someone special.