Hederlez

Hederlez is an important holiday for the entire south of Moldova. It is considered one of the most important in the Turkic world as well. It is an opportunity for Gagauzia to display its cultural wealth and talents: food, handicrafts, dances, music, language and traditions. The main celebrations take part in Ceadir-Lunga, the second city in the Gagauz autonomy. Here horse races are organized and amateurs compete for the grand prix.

The legend says the prophets Hızır (Al-Khdir) and İlyas (Elijah) met on this day on earth (May 6th). That is how the name of the holiday appeared – Hızır-İlyas. Today, Hederlez is a spring festivity. It occurs just on the beginning of Easter holidays, and is an occasion for people to gather, play some music, and share a meal.