Photos by Maciej and Me
Surva is the International Festival of the Masquerade Games in Pernik. It is the biggest event of this type not only in Bulgaria but on the Balkan Peninsula. It promotes variations of ancient Bulgarian customs that are still alive today. These are an important part of the Bulgarian folklore tradition and are meant to be performed by single men and women. With its competitive nature, the festival is not only a venue but also a contest for the living vessels of this tradition, namely the Kukeri and Survakari.
(for more information – SURVA.ORG)