site.btaDelicious Food and Friendly Atmosphere Draw People to Sofia's Big Table on Aug. 23

Laughter and lively chatter filled Sofia's Exarch Yosif I Street on Saturday, along the stretch between Benkovski and Budapest Streets, as the city hosted the Big Table event. Locals and visitors gathered around a 60-metre-long table, sharing food and drinks, some brought from home, others purchased on-site, while a live band provided a cheerful soundtrack.

Now in its third year, the initiative carries the slogan "Bring Food. Meet Your Neighbour". Its aim is simple: to bring people together, spark conversations, reconnect friends and forge new acquaintances. The event is open to everyone in Sofia and its visitors, not just residents of the Oborishte District.

The spread was a feast for the senses: chips, burgers, baked goods, salads and sweet treats like ice cream, along with home-made drinks. Visitors contributed boxes of cookies and fresh fruit.

Sarah and Vasil, returning to the Big Table for another year with their two children, brought favourite home-made dishes. "We brought food from home, and picked up coffee and ice cream here. It's really nice, a great way to meet people and make friends," said Vasil. Sarah added: "Every year we meet so many interesting people. This time, among other things, we brought bread from our local bakery, and the kids love the ice cream the most."

The event offers local small businesses and artisans a chance to showcase their products. Dafinka, who works in a bakery, told BTA: "It's a wonderful initiative, and more people are joining each year. Our baked goods are made with Bulgarian flour only, using as natural a process as possible." Visitors sampled croissants, cookies and tarts while browsing the tables.

To bring a touch of the Mediterranean and a hint of summer's lingering warmth, one vendor offered green olives and olive oil. "We have olives stuffed with lemon or orange peel," said Milena Asenova. “This is a wonderful event, it inspires us to be here. It's a chance for people to get to know each other and spend time together.”

A play corner kept children entertained, and the nearby local fire station opened its doors for tours, letting kids explore and learn about firefighters' work.

The Big Table will remain in place until 10 pm on Saturday, welcoming new visitors to join the conversation, share food and enjoy the lively spirit of the event.