Bulgarians from all over the country are expected to gather at the Rozhen folklore fair, which is taking place in the Rhodope mountains between Friday and Sunday.

The roots of the fair, which takes place on the meadows of the Rozhen area in the municipality of Smolyan, can be traced back to 1898 and its last edition was back in 2006.

This year there will be 7565 participants representing folklore ensembles from all over the country, while 350 000 people are expected to attend the fair over the three days.

This year's edition is under the aegis of Bulgarian President Rosen Plevneliev, who attended the first day of the fair on Friday.

Apart from the rich folklore programme celebrating the folklore of the Rhodopes, there will be also exhibitions of animal husbandry, traditional crafts, culinary events, demonstration of ancient Thracian cults and military skills.

Among the participants will be the most prominent singer of the Rhodope mountains - Valya Balkanska, who will be accompanied by the traditional bagpipe players.