Bright white and glowing red rapidly took over Bulgaria, as its people celebrated the unique Baba Marta holiday on Tuesday.

The biting cold outside could not stop the traditional cheerful ritual of people decorating each other with the vibrant colours of spring.

Every year on March 1, the Bulgarians present each other with martenitsa - knotworks of red and white threads, often featuring glittering colourful beads, ribbons and tassels. The trinket, which symbolizes health and merriment, should be worn until one sees a stork for the first time that year.

The pagan festival is celebrated in Bulgaria exclusively, and has been enjoying great popularity. Over the last several years, children have been especially fond of martenitsa pinned by brooches with the faces of celebrities, popular movie and cartoon heroes.

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