The Traditions of Bulgarian Kukeri

The people of Bulgaria still have a connection to the invisible and transcendent world around them.

Unlike most of us westernized Christians who have ignored, denied and forgotten the invisble realm God created along side our visible realm, many Bulgarians acknowledge it.

Is it Margi Gra or Halloween?

Kukeri are elaborately costumed Bulgarians, who perform traditional rituals intended to scare away evil spirits and bring good harvest and health to the community for the year.

The yearly tradition has been practiced since Thracian times and is said to have its origins in that culture.

Thracians lived mainly in the Balkans (modern day Bulgaria, Romania, Turkey and Greece).

To be in the festival each member of a Kukeri group must have a costume they made themselves.

Kukeri Bells that are handed down from generation to generation must also be worn

Some of the bells can weigh 220 lbs.The masks are usually constructed from wood and covered in colorful yarn threads, fur, animal teeth, beads, and horns. It is the ringing of the bells that drives away the evil spirits.

In the distant past, the Kukeri monsters would go from door to door and perform their magical dance but that has disappered in favor of a large carnival.

How a Bulgarian Village Dances Evil Spirits Away | Kukeri | The New Yorker Documentary

Video from The New Yorker

"Once a year, the Bulgarian tradition of Kukeri unites a small village as residents wear intricate masks and costumes and dance at night. Killian Lassablière chronicles the practice in his short documentary." from video introduction

Bulgarian Kukeri: A Colorful Celebration of Folklore

The Bulgarian Kukeri tradition is a fascinating and unique cultural celebration that has been passed down from generation to generation for centuries. It is a colorful and festive event that takes place during the winter months. Kukeri are an important part of Bulgarian culture and are celebrated in many regions of the country, each with its unique customs and practices.

Who are Kukeri?

Bulgarian Kukeri (plural) are a group of men who dress in elaborate costumes and masks. They perform traditional dances to scare away evil spirits and bring good luck and fertility to the village community. Their costumes cover most of the body and often include decorated masks of animals and large bells attached to the belt. In some areas of Bulgaria, Kukeri can be found between Christmas and the Epiphany (January 6). In other areas, the Kukeri come the Sunday before Lent.." from the article: Bulgarian Kukeri: A Colorful Celebration of Folklore

Rituals similar to Kukeri can be found in Great Britain and Ireland (mummers) or in Sardinia, Italy.

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The Traditions of Bulgarian Kukeri