Surva Pernik Bulgaria, Kuker.net Beállítások

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The Surva Festival in Pernik, Bulgaria

The Surva Festival is an annual event held in Pernik, Bulgaria, on January 13 and 14. It is the largest and most prestigious festival of traditional masked games and customs in Bulgaria and the Balkans. The festival features performances by groups from all over Bulgaria, as well as from other countries in the region.

The Surva Festival is a celebration of Bulgarian culture and tradition. The masked performers, known as "kukeri," wear elaborate costumes and masks. The costumes are often made of leather and decorated with bells, which are believed to ward off evil spirits. The masks are often scary or grotesque, and they are thought to represent the forces of evil that the kukeri are trying to defeat.

The kukeri perform a variety of dances and rituals. They often dance around bonfires, and they sometimes engage in mock battles with each other. The dances and rituals are believed to bring good luck and prosperity to the community.

The Surva Festival is a popular tourist attraction. It is a vibrant and colorful event that showcases the rich cultural heritage of Bulgaria.

History of the Surva Festival

The Surva Festival has a long and rich history. It is believed to have originated in ancient Thracian times. The Thracians were a people who lived in what is now Bulgaria and parts of Southeastern Europe. They were known for their elaborate costumes and masks, which they wore in religious ceremonies and festivals.

The Surva Festival continued to be celebrated in Bulgaria after the arrival of the Slavs in the 6th century. The Slavs adopted the Thracian traditions, and they added their own elements to the festival.

The Surva Festival was banned during the communist era in Bulgaria. However, it was revived in the 1960s, and it has since become one of the most popular cultural events in Bulgaria.

The Surva Festival Today

The Surva Festival is now a major event in Bulgaria. It attracts visitors from all over the world. The festival is held in the central square of Pernik, and it is free to attend.

The festival begins on January 13 with a parade of kukeri groups from all over Bulgaria. The parade is followed by a variety of performances and activities, including dances, rituals, and competitions.

The Surva Festival is a unique and exciting event that showcases the rich cultural heritage of Bulgaria. It is a must-see for anyone visiting Bulgaria during the winter months.

SourcE: www.Kukeri.net