The annual ritual was held for the 121st time. “The rose is one of Bulgaria’s national symbols, and Bulgarian rose oil is well-known worldwide for its quality,” Stratev said. He vowed that rose farmers can count on strong support from the Ministry of Agriculture and Food.
Fields planted with oil-bearing rose have expanded since last year despite the difficulties, and currently measure 5,000 hectares, Stratev said, adding that Bulgaria has 51 rose flower producing and processing businesses.
The Rose Queen of 2024, Nedelina Nedelcheva, and her runners-up, named in a traditional beauty contest, were presented during the ritual. Folklore music and dance performances were held.
Approached by BTA, Tourism Minister Miloshev said: “This is extraordinary. We see the emotion and the energy of the Rose Festival. Everything is very impressive.”
Kazanlak Mayor Galina Stoyanova expects a growing number of tourists to visit the area. She asked Education Minister Tsokov whether he would consider having school students help with the manual rose harvesting process to offset the shortage of labour. Tsokov approved of the idea.
