Kukeri festival: Chasing away evil spirits in Bulgaria

The ancient cultural tradition invites good luck for locals and drive away evil spirits

Last updated: January 14, 2020 | 09:36

2 MIN READ

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A Bulgarian dancer wearing a costume performs a ritual dance with flaming torches during the Kukeri Carnival in the village of Batanovtsi, western Bulgaria

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The Kukeri Carnival is a festival of brightly colored masks and costumes which marks the beginning of Spring.

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Every participant makes his own multi-colored personal mask, covered with beads, ribbons and woolen tassels.

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The heavy swaying of the main mummer is meant to represent wheat heavy with grain, and the bells tied around the waist are intended to drive away the evil spirits and the sickness.

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Bulgarian dancers dressed as animals perform a ritual dance with flaming torches during the Kukeri Carnival

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Bulgarian dancers wearing costumes perform a ritual dance with flaming torches during the Kukeri Carnival in the village of Batanovtsi, western Bulgaria

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A Bulgarian dancer wearing costume looks on a ritual dance with flaming torches during the Kukeri Carnival

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Every participant makes his own multi-colored personal mask, covered with beads, ribbons and woolen tassels.

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A big bonfire and a torchlight procession under the sounds of drums during the Kukeri Festival in Bulgaria

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Bulgarian dancers wearing costumes perform a ritual dance with flaming torches during the Kukeri Carnival in the village of Batanovtsi, western Bulgaria

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