A four-day festival kicks off today in Ahtopol, aiming to draw more visitors as the tourist season draws to a close. According to Marin Kirov, the Mayor of Tsarevo, such cultural and sporting events in the municipalities along the South Black Sea Coast are key to maintaining tourist interest beyond the beaches and city centers.
During the national meeting of the state, local government, and tourism businesses, "Dolgolyatie/Gostopriemno More 2026," held in Tsarevo, Marin Kirov shared that Tsarevo had been packed with tourists until mid-September. In his words, a similar influx of visitors has been observed in other settlements, such as Sinemorets, Lozeneets, Varvara, and Ahtopol. Current indicators for the tourist season along the South Black Sea Coast are moving at levels similar to those of the previous year.
"In fact, we are chasing last year's levels, which is a good sign for us. We aren't seeing a distinct decline; on the contrary, all municipal events were well-attended," Kirov stated. He emphasized that despite concerns about a downturn due to international conflicts and the fact that this is Bulgaria's first year in the eurozone, real summer results show that these fears will not be realized.
To develop the region as a premier tourist destination, the mayor highlighted the need to offer a wider spectrum of opportunities rather than just seaside experiences and beaches. His vision involves creating comprehensive destinations that encourage people to return and engage in cultural life or sporting events. According to Kirov, it is precisely the cultural and sporting sectors that have the potential to contribute to a longer and earlier tourist season.
All of this falls within the framework of the "Dolgolyatie" national initiative, a project by the Ministry of Tourism. Launched in 2025 in partnership with the Burgas Regional Administration and Black Sea municipalities, its primary goal is to extend the tourist period through the months of September and October. By promoting festival, historical, sporting, and cultural tourism, the initiative aims to present the South Black Sea Coast as an attractive destination even outside the peak months of June, July, and August.