On May 9, 2026, West Park became the setting for one of the most aromatic and lively events in the Rotary Club Sofia-Balkan family—the first-ever Interact BBQ, organized by the Rotaract Club Sofia-Balkan.
The main goal of the event was simple yet essential: to bring together friends from the Interact clubs within the Sofia-Balkan family, helping them get to know each other better and proving that great ideas are best served with the smell of a barbecue.
For those wondering how the day went—it was a mix of laughter, banter, games, and kyufteta (meatballs). A lot of them.
While the Interactors debated who was the most “professional” at flipping the meatballs and whether the charcoal was “ready,” the Rotaractors took on the heavy organizational task of ensuring no one went hungry. Naturally, there was beer for the of-age participants, and significant logistical support for the beer distribution was provided by Past President Radoslav Smilkov and Rotary Club Sofia-Balkan President Ivaylo Vasilev, who proved that Rotary service sometimes includes safeguarding the “refrigerated assets.”
Yet, beyond the cheerful atmosphere, there was more to the event. Between games and the inevitable question of “who ate the last meatball,” important topics were discussed, including club development, ideas for future joint projects, and even plans for establishing a new Interact club within the Sofia-Balkan family.
In short, it was a true Rotary event: friendship, ideas, energy, and a bit of smoke in the eyes—mostly from the grill.
Special thanks go to Rotaract Sofia-Balkan President-Elect Philip for the organization, to President Teodor, and to our grill master Konstantin, who was awarded the honorary Chef’s Apron of Rotary Club Sofia-Balkan.
If this is the future of the Interact and Rotaract family of Sofia-Balkan, we can confidently say that it is in good hands—and over a good fire.
