WOX TRAVEL CONTEST | WEEK 9 / Enchanting Masks

Every year in the town of Pernik, Bulgaria, they throw a lively party called the International Surva Festival. Bulgarian crews from all over the country and even from abroad join in the fun. The masquerade tradition has been around since ancient times and is still going strong as part of Bulgaria's folk customs. Bulgarian mask games are mainly linked to celebrations from Christmas to Easter. In various parts of Bulgaria, guys in costumes play around New Year's, during the Wild Days - from Christmas to Epiphany.

The folks in Western Bulgaria who play around New Year's are commonly known as "survakari," while in other parts of Bulgaria, they go by the name "kukeri." Winter and pre-spring mask games are tied to the shift from the old to the new year, anticipating the revival of nature. They express hopes for a plentiful harvest, good health, and fertility for both people and animals. The symbols aim to ward off negative vibes and gear up for a fresh start.

The performance of the masked crew is a mysterious mix of rhythm, sound, and vibrant colors. They move with a unique step, wearing eye-catching masks and distinctive outfits, filling their villages with hundreds of jingling bells, mixed with chants and blessings. According to local beliefs, the masks act as a shield against harmful forces. The ritual masks provide a wealth of information about different ethnographic regions. The sound of the bells hanging around the masked crew's waists intensifies their protective influence.

The masked crew consists of various characters, and traditionally, all ritual roles are taken on by guys dressed in various masquerade outfits. In Pernik, you'll see masks representing all ethnographic regions of the country, each with its own special regional twists in masking.

If you're thinking about checking out the festival, mark your calendar for the next January. Over three days, you'll immerse yourself in the traditions of Bulgaria's masquerade costumes 💗 Enojy