Simitli hosts Bulgaria's biggest kukeri festival for the 21st year in a row

For the 21st consecutive year, Simitli is hosting one of the largest masquerade festivals in Bulgaria. Originally a local entertainment, "Simitli - The Ancient Land of Kukeri" has become one of the most important kukeri events in the country. Over the next two days, more than 9,000 participants from 60 kukeri groups will march through the town.

Kukeri are traditional masked dancers who take part in an ancient custom believed to ward off evil spirits and bring health, fertility and prosperity. "A parade of fairy tale characters will flood Simitli - kukeri, bears, bear handlers, survakari, elders, brides and grooms," say the organisers.

Thousands of spectators are expected to gather at the local stadium where the festival takes place to share in the excitement. The festivities will include masquerade balls, folk songs and dances, displays of folk arts and crafts, and competitions for the best kukeri costumes. "This year, several new groups will be shaking the ground in Simitli for the first time," the organisers add.

The kukeri tradition is considered one of the oldest Bulgarian customs and is of great importance in preserving the nation's cultural heritage.