Mavrovo-Rostushe, 12 July 2026 (MIA) - Galichnik is hosting the traditional Galichnik Wedding 2026 on Sunday, marking St. Peter’s Day. Once again, the centuries-old celebration is expected to welcome visitors from home and abroad, who will experience a unique cultural spectacle featuring traditional wedding rituals, authentic costumes, folk songs and dances – a living expression of the rich heritage of the Mijak region.

This year’s Galichnik bride and groom are Aleksandar Pendaroski and Martina Mihajlova. This year marks 35 years since the first modern Galichnik Wedding, held in 1991, when Aleksandar’s parents were married. Their participation in the Galichnik Wedding represents a continuation of a family legacy and a strong connection with Galichnik, its customs and traditions.

“For me, this is not just a wedding, but the continuation of a family story and a bond with Galichnik that has lasted for generations. I am especially proud that this year, as we mark 35 years since my parents’ wedding in Galichnik, I will have the opportunity to become a Galichnik groom myself,” said Aleksandar Pendaroski, this year’s Galichnik groom, at a press conference held several weeks ago.

His bride-to-be, Martina Mihajlova, said that the Galichnik Wedding is a feeling that is difficult to describe in words.

“Being part of a tradition that has endured for centuries is an honor, a responsibility and a privilege. We eagerly and with great excitement await the moments when, together with our families and all the guests, we will experience the magic of Galichnik and its unique wedding customs,” Mihajlova said.

The event began on Friday, July 10, with a cultural and entertainment programme. It is organized by the Galichnik local community, while the patron of Galichnik Wedding 2026 is President Gordana Siljanovska-Davkova.

The Ministry of Culture and Tourism is once again providing institutional support for the event, alongside numerous companies and friends of Galichnik.

As in previous years, the entire programme of Galichnik Wedding 2026, featuring all traditional wedding customs, will be broadcast on a video screen installed on the central plateau in the village and will also be streamed live on social media.

Photo: archive