Surva Festival: Bulgaria's masked dancers and bells

The Surva International Festival of Masquerade Games in Pernik is one of the largest masked festivals in Europe. Groups of survakari and kukeri in huge masks, furs and heavy bells parade through the town, performing old rituals meant to chase away evil and bring a good year.

Fun facts

• The festival has been held in Pernik since 1966.
• UNESCO lists the Surova folk feast in the Pernik region as intangible cultural heritage.
• Costumes combine sheepskins, feathers and bells that can weigh many kilograms.

What to see

• The main parade of masked groups from Bulgaria and abroad.
• The ruins of Krakra fortress on a hill above the town.
• The underground Mining Museum, set in old mine galleries.

What to taste

• Banitsa, flaky filo pastry with white cheese, eaten for breakfast.
• Rakia, strong Bulgarian fruit brandy, often served with salad.
• Kebapche, grilled spiced minced meat, a classic street snack.

What to do

• Make it an easy day trip from Sofia.
• Photograph the masks and costumes close up between performances.
• Add a walk on Vitosha mountain on the edge of Sofia.

💡 Tip: From Sofia airport take the metro into the city, then a train or bus to Pernik, which takes under an hour. Dress warmly, as the parade runs outdoors for hours in January.