Chisinau City Day: endless wine and tasty barbecue

Chisinau City Day may sound weird or unusual, at first sight. However, as any city in this beautiful and fascinating world, our city has its date of birth too. And we, the residents of the capital of Moldova, adore to celebrate it. The 14th of October is considered to be that day. Endless wine, tasty barbecue, many exhibitions and national traditions on the Great National Assembly Square - it's the typical setting in the middle of the city in October. What are the roots of the celebration, and how do locals usually spend this holiday? Why should you attend it? Let's find out! 

Great National Assembly Square

Piața Marii Adunări Naționale, Chișinău, Молдавия

Orthodox customs of the holiday

The most common variant of the "Chisinau" name comes from a combination of archaic Romanian words. "Chişla nouă" means "a new bowery" or "a new spring (of water)", because Chisinau was occasionally "built" on the small spring. What about the first mentions of the location? They were made in the year 1436, on the 17th of July. Then, you will ask, why don't we celebrate the City Day in July? Because of the fact that the day of the Protection of the Mother of God occurs also on the 14th of October. Being the main saint for Moldavian people, the Day of Mother of God is really important for the residents, as well as the Orthodox customs in general. Thus, the city authorities and the general public decided to choose October as the main celebration month. 

Festivity plan and liters of wine

Chisinau has celebrated its birthday more than 580 times! Although, having different festivity plans, the City Day is considered to be a traditional national holiday, celebrated practically the same way each year. In addition, we have an official day off during this day. Festive events usually start early in the morning and begin with a solemn service in the Cathedral of Christ's Nativity in the center of Chisinau. The streets, especially main, Stefan cel Mare Street, are blocked from both sides to give the guests the freedom to have fun during the celebration. All along the main square and in the closest parks, like, Stefan cel Mare Park, there are a lot of spots full of our Moldavian manufactures. This is one of the unique chances to purchase quality goods at lower prices. Oh! And at every step, the chefs are ready to please you with an excellent meal prepared right in front of you - barbecue, salads, and even side dishes. This event is a great opportunity to taste our excellent Moldavian wine. Local artists and singers usually perform on the constructed stages to entertain the locals; however, sometimes authorities invite even international stars. 

The Cathedral of Christ's Nativity, Chisinau

Piața Marii Adunări Naționale 12, Chișinău, Молдавия

Stefan cel Mare Park, Chisinau

Why you should visit Chisinau City Day

This is the most important and exciting part! Of course, you should visit the City Day because of the peculiar national festivities. There are traditional dances, national cuisine, local manufactures to see and experience right there. However, one of the fascinating reasons to visit this holiday is endless wine and a tasty barbecue! Sellers usually give you some amount for degustation but, I suggest to bring cash with you - 500-1000 leis maximum (about 25-50 euros maximum). The entrance is free for everyone, and if you want to come closer to Moldavian culture - this is a perfect time to do so! I almost forgot: the festive program ends with the fireworks at 11.00 p.m. before which you can admire the beautiful sunset.