Today, 8 October, the city of Veliko Tarnovo opens the 20th anniversary edition of the International Tourism Fair “Cultural Tourism.” Following the success and productive work during the Global Conference on Wine Tourism held in Plovdiv, the Ministry of Tourism continues its active international dialogue, this time focusing on cultural tourism through the prestigious exhibition in Veliko Tarnovo.

Over the next three days, the former Bulgarian capital will bring together municipalities, institutions, tourism companies, cultural centers, universities, civil organizations, and artists from Bulgaria and abroad. The forum is recognized as the most authoritative platform in the country for presenting cultural heritage, new tourism products, and successful partnerships between culture and tourism. This marks the twentieth consecutive year that the Ministry of Tourism has been a partner of the event.

“We are working actively to promote Bulgaria as a year-round destination for cultural tourism — through national and international campaigns, digital platforms, thematic routes, and partnerships between tourism and cultural organizations. We are encouraging sustainable tourism — one that preserves the authenticity of our heritage while creating added value for local communities,” said Minister of Tourism Miroslav Borshosh at the opening of the jubilee edition.

This year, the Bulgarian cultural phenomenon — the community cultural centers — once again make a strong statement of their role as an inseparable part of Bulgaria’s identity, presenting living traditions, community spirit, and the richness of intangible cultural heritage within the exhibition.

During the opening ceremony, Mayor Daniel Panov expressed his gratitude to Minister Miroslav Borshosh for his active support and for initiating a new level of partnership with Bulgarian municipalities. He emphasized that effective cooperation between national and local authorities is the foundation of sustainable sectoral development. “The support of the Ministry of Tourism for municipalities is key to developing sustainable and balanced tourism across all regions of the country. Only through joint efforts can we showcase Bulgaria’s wealth and create conditions for stronger interest in domestic destinations,” said Daniel Panov.

Over the years, the event has become a signature forum for Bulgaria, and this anniversary edition will place a special focus on the richness and diversity of the nation’s intangible cultural heritage. “The ‘Cultural Tourism’ exhibition is a symbol of continuity and a vision for the future. Bulgaria possesses invaluable cultural heritage — the cornerstone of our identity and our competitiveness as a destination. I am glad that Veliko Tarnovo has hosted this forum for two decades, proving that culture is the heart of the tourism experience and a driving force for regional development,” added Minister Borshosh.

The program of the anniversary edition includes a presentation of honorary awards to individuals and organizations contributing to the forum’s development, a national conference titled “Intangible Cultural Heritage – The Unadulterated Charm of Destinations”, and an award ceremony for winners of the National Student Contest for Best Tourism Concept. Other highlights feature the conference “The Festival – A Recipe for Revival” and a special exhibition by the National High School of Applied Arts “Tryavna School,” showcasing works in artistic woodcarving, interior design, and iconography, accompanied by live demonstrations.