Summer in Bulgaria is not only beaches and mountain walks, but also the season of juicy watermelons, which are called dinya here. And melon, by the way, is pepesh.
According to local farmers, watermelons are bought for 40-50 stotinki per kilogram, and on the shelves the price rises to 1 leva and more. The main profit is received not by the producers, but by intermediaries.
Bulgarian varieties and regions
Three main varieties of watermelons are grown in the country, but only one is considered truly Bulgarian - Mramorna 17. This is a light-striped variety with crispy, juicy and sweet flesh.
The main regions for growing watermelons are:
Pchelino, Lyubimets, Haskovo
Dobrich, Bulgarevo, Svilengrad
Salmanovo, Petreven, Dobrudzha
These lands are known not only for their excellent climate, but also for their long-standing agricultural traditions.
Watermelon Festival in Nikup
Every year, on August 3, the village of Nikup (Veliko Tarnovo Region) hosts a traditional watermelon festival. This is a real celebration of taste and summer: guests are treated to fresh watermelons and melons, competitions, fairs and tastings are held.
The festival is a great opportunity to try sweet fruits straight from the fields, support local farmers and get in touch with Bulgarian rural culture.