Kazanlak is the center of rose oil extraction in Bulgaria, so it’s only natural that the town hosts a Rose Festival.

The 112th year of the fragrant event celebrating the Rosa damascena (Damask Rose) is set for June 5 to 8, 2015. It includes a queen contest, parade, concerts and art exhibits.

Don’t miss stopping at the Rose Museum, a part of the Historical Museum “Iskra” in Kazanlak with more than 15 000 exponents related to rose-picking and rose-production in Bulgaria.

If your Bulgarian isn’t fluent, consider going as part of a tour group. Companies offering the opportunity include Europe Travel Tours, Boiana-MG and Bulgaria Private Guide.

(Photo courtesy of Europetraveltours.net)