Demonstration Alert: Multiple Events Planned for Downtown Sofia – February 17 – 18
Throughout the weekend of February 17 - 18, downtown Sofia will host multiple events that will significantly impede traffic and present elevated risks to safety and well-being. The embassy advises U.S. citizens to avoid the affected areas. Please see details below.
Event: Lukov March: Beginning tomorrow, Saturday February 17, 2024, a demonstration is scheduled to begin at 1400. The march is traditionally held by ultra-nationalistic affiliates and considered to be commemorative of Nazi ideology and tradition.
Host nation authorities expect participants to gather at approximately 1400, and the demonstration to last until 1700 (times may vary). Bulgarian officials expect approximately 1000 participants. Participants will meet at the National Palace of Culture (NDK) and proceed to #1 Trakai Street (east of Nevski Cathedral) (routes may vary).
Event: Counter Protest: Also on February 17, beginning at 1300, a counter protest entitled “No Nazis in the Streets” will gather at Lake Ariana and march through downtown Sofia, ending at the Banya Bashi Mosque.
Host nation authorities expect participants to gather at approximately 1300, and the demonstration to last until 1800 (times can vary). Bulgarian officials plan for approximately 200 participants (times and routes may vary).
Event: Football Match and Demonstration: On Sunday, February 18, there will be a football match that may significantly impact traffic in the city. Prior to this match there will be a demonstration march commemorating the anniversary of the hanging of Vasil Levski.
The demonstration will begin at the monument of Vasil Levski at 1500, and a procession will proceed to the Vasil Levski stadium. At 1745, the football match between CSKA Sofia and Botev Vratsa at the National stadium V. Levski will commence. Traffic will likely be affected well before and well after the start and end of this demonstration/match. Police will close roads, as necessary.
Please anticipate road closures and an increased police presence in these areas. These events will likely result in delays, roadblocks, and in a general increase in normal weekday traffic throughout downtown Sofia. Please note that the demonstration times and road closures are subject to change.
Actions to Take:
Even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and possibly become violent.
Avoid areas of demonstrations.
Exercise caution if unexpectedly found in the vicinity of large gatherings or demonstrations.
Be aware of your surroundings.
Monitor local media for updates.
Keep a low profile.
U.S. Citizens are advised to call the police (#112), seek a safe location, and wait for assistance from the police
Assistance:
Bulgarian emergency hotline: 112
U.S. Embassy Sofia, Bulgaria
+359-2-937-5100 (business hours)
+359-2-937-5101 (after hours—emergencies only—arrest, death, or danger to the safety and security of U.S. citizens)
ACS_Sofia@state.gov
https://bg.usembassy.gov
State Department - Consular Affairs
888-407-4747 or 202-501-4444
Bulgaria Country Information
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