Surva Kukeri Bulgaria

Surva kukeri is a traditional Bulgarian festival that takes place on January 13 and 14, the eve and the day of the Julian New Year. The festival is celebrated in many villages and towns across Bulgaria, but the largest and most famous Surva festival is held in the town of Pernik.

Kukeri are masked men who perform rituals to chase away evil spirits and bring good luck for the coming year. They wear elaborate costumes that often feature animal masks, bells, and other symbols of fertility and abundance. The kukeri dance around the village, making loud noises with their bells to scare away the evil spirits.

Kukeri in Bulgaria

The Surva festival is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is considered to be one of the most important cultural traditions in Bulgaria. It is a vibrant and colorful celebration of Bulgarian culture and heritage.

The kukeri costumes are typically made of sheepskin or felt and are often decorated with colorful fabrics, beads, and mirrors. The masks are often made of wood or leather and can be quite elaborate, with horns, antlers, or other animal features. The kukeri also wear bells around their waists, which they shake to make a loud noise.