For the third consecutive year, the Little Bulgaria UK charity — under the discerning leadership of Knight Mihail Stoyanov and Dame Sofia Stoyanova, both trustees of the charity and esteemed members of the Order — brought the Bulgarian spirit to life in Cambridge with its annual "Cambridge Sings and Dances!" festival on 29 June 2025. Recognised as the largest Bulgarian cultural festival ever held in the United Kingdom, this year’s event drew more than 2,500 visitors and embraced eight hours of continuous music, dance and cultural celebration on the lawns of Nuns Way Pavilion, Cambridge.
The festival programme was richer and more immersive than ever: over 40 performances by 20 singing and dance ensembles, including six children’s groups — a joyful testament to the vitality of Bulgarian folk traditions across the UK. Attendees filled the grounds with song, colour, and the rhythms of folklore, staying beyond the scheduled close as the enthusiasm and community spirit carried on well into the afternoon.
A highlight for all present was the spectacular procession featuring the 40-metre Bulgarian flag, carried to the lively strains of Dunavsko Horo as hundreds of dancers and onlookers joined in.
This moving pageant of cultural pride was led by distinguished members of the Order of Saint George the Martyr: Grand Master Robert Dryden, Grand Prior Richard Brown, Knight Commander Piero D’Angelico Falco, Knights Robert Hyslop and Mick Pocock, and Abdul Arain, valued friend of the Order.
The festival was graced by prominent guests who underscored the significance of the event. His Excellency Tihomir Stoychev, Ambassador of the Republic of Bulgaria to the United Kingdom — and Honorary Knight of the Order conferred during the 2025 Investiture — offered remarks celebrating Bulgaria’s ancient heritage and the vital role of community in preserving cultural identity. Representatives from local government — Cllr Dinah Pounds, Mayor of Cambridge, and Paul Bristow, Mayor of the Cambridgeshire & Peterborough Combined Authority — also shared their greetings and reflections.
Beyond the formal programme, members of the Order had the opportunity to engage with these distinguished guests, fostering dialogue and mutual respect that exemplify the Order’s commitment to fellowship and cultural exchange.
In true festival spirit, members also participated wholeheartedly in the joyful experience of Bulgarian traditions: learning and dancing the horo alongside the crowd, exploring a vibrant marketplace of traditional cuisine, sweets, crafts, textiles, and artisan stalls, and sharing in the warmth of Bulgarian hospitality that permeated the day.
This celebration of heritage, community and unity resonates deeply with the core values of the Order of Saint George the Martyr — faith, charity, honour, and the service of cultural fellowship. Through active support and presence at events such as this, the Order reaffirms its dedication to strengthening bonds between peoples and celebrating the rich tapestry of traditions that enrich our societies.
We extend our sincere gratitude to the Little Bulgaria UK charity for their continued dedication for fostering cultural inclusivity and look forward to many fruitful cultural events in the years ahead.
Below is a video from the event.