Martisor Day 2026 in Romania

It is a gesture of courtesy to present a "martisor" to a woman for the beginning of spring and a guarantee of good luck

Dates: March 1

Martisor is a cherished tradition celebrated across Romania every year on March 1st. The name "Martisor" is a diminutive of March ("Martie" in Romanian), symbolizing the arrival of spring. According to tradition, those who wear the red and white string are believed to enjoy a prosperous and healthy year ahead.

Celebration Highlights

Martisor Day marks the first day of spring when Romanian men traditionally honor women with special gifts. These gifts often include handmade jewelry, such as a brooch, figurine, or bracelet made from red and white cords. The last one is central to the celebration, bearing the same name as the holiday. It can also be hung in various places to protect against evil spirits.

Origins

Archaeological research suggests that the Martisor tradition dates back over 8,000 years. Some ethnologists believe its origins are Roman, while others argue it stems from ancient Dacian customs.

Symbolic Traditions

The red color of the martisor symbolizes vitality, life, and the passion of women, while the white threads represent victory, snow, and the wisdom of men. This simple cotton ornament is believed to offer protection against evil spirits and bring about the renewal of nature. In the past, people would hang the Mărțișor on their front gates or wear it with painted river pebbles around their necks, symbolizing this protective and revitalizing power.

Initially called the "Year's Rope," the martisor was made of black and white wool threads, symbolizing the union of opposites: summer and winter, light and darkness, cold and warmth, life and death. Those who received a martisor were meant to wear it throughout March and then hang it on a fruit tree branch. It was believed that the pendant held magical properties, bringing good luck, strength, and health to its wearer.

Where to Find Martisor

From late February onwards, martisors are available for purchase throughout Romania, found at small stands near bus and metro stations, supermarkets, and spring fairs. In Bucharest, martisors fairs are typically held at the open-air Village Museum and the National Museum of the Romanian Peasant.