Midsummer flower crowns, medieval celebrations and Christmas markets filled with lights, music and the scent of cinnamon.
Romania celebrates in its own way, and many of its festivals are still rooted in village life. Here are three worth planning a journey around.
Sânziene, midsummer night (24 June)
On the night of the Sânziene, girls in the villages weave crowns of wild yellow bedstraw flowers. Old customs say the crowns thrown over the roof tell who will marry next. In Maramureș and Bucovina you can still see the songs and costumes at village celebrations.
The Sighișoara Medieval Festival (usually late July)
For a few days each summer, the only inhabited medieval citadel in Europe fills with music, crafts and costumes. It is lively and busy — we recommend staying overnight so you can enjoy the citadel early in the morning, before the crowds.
The Christmas markets (late November to December)
Sibiu's Grand Square becomes one of the most beautiful Christmas markets in Eastern Europe, and Brașov and Bucharest follow. Combine them with the winter customs of the villages — carol singers, masked dancers and the smell of cozonac — and you have Romania at its most magical.
Exact dates change every year; we always confirm them before planning your journey.
