Minister Ilin Dimitrov participated in the official opening ceremony of the ski season in Bansko

Minister of Tourism Ilin Dimitrov, PhD, participated in the official opening ceremony of the ski season in Bansko, which was held on the central square “Nikola Vaptsarov”. The event was hosted by the town’s mayor Ivan Kadev, who gave a symbolic start to the 2022/2023 winter tourist season.

Minister Dimitrov discussed with representatives of local businesses and local authorities’ topical issues related to the upcoming season. The focus was on security and the provision of additional medical assistance for tourists in the mountains.

The ceremony was attended by the Minister of Youth and Sports Vesela Lecheva, the Rector of the National Sports Academy Professor Nikolay Izov, with the special participation of ski legends Maria Höfl-Riesch - three-time Olympic and two-time world ski champion and Marc Girardelli - five-time World Cup winner and honorary citizen of the Bulgarian resort town. With their presence and support they not only work for the cause of Bulgarian tourism and winter sport, but also clearly declare the world level of our beloved and preferred by many resort - Bansko. From the stage, the participants reminded that in just a month’s time, the World Cup Snowboarding starts will take place, which will put Bulgaria and Bansko in the spotlight at the beginning of 2023.

In his address, Minister Dimitrov thanked the hosts - the mayor and the citizens of Bansko - for their tireless work in raising the prestige of the landmark for Bulgarian tourism and winter sports resort town. He wished a successful season and more snow.

Minister Dimitrov highlighted the diversity of the tourist product offered by the resort town - a majestic mountain with picturesque views and exciting adventures throughout the year - for travelers, mountaineers and adventurers, photographers and golfers and lovers of various extreme sports, warm healing mineral waters and clean air, which are the basis for the development of balneology and health tourism, unique and exceptionally delicious cuisine, which combined with wine tourism, authentic atmosphere, architecture and folklore give the experience a special power.

The event was accompanied by a presentation of culinary delights and tasting of traditional dishes from the region, united under the title “Unique Bansko”. The celebration was joined by the ensemble “Chinari”, who immersed the audience in the authentic atmosphere of Bulgarian folklore. The guests also witnessed a beautiful fire show.