site.btaKukeri to Chase Evil Spirits Away in Dunavtsi Village near Kazanlak

A Kuker and masquerade group will chase away evil spirits in Dunavtsi village near Kazanlak, participant Bilyana Yankova told BTA on Sunday. 

Split into two groups, participants will visit each house in the village to drive away evil and usher in spring.

"The Kuker group in Dunavtsi has around 15 members, but during festivals others join as well, wearing various masquerade costumes. We have a bride, a camel and a camel driver, as well as girls dressed in traditional folk costumes who reenact the custom of Sirni Zagovezni, when forgiveness is asked," Yankova said. 

She added that currently the youngest Kuker group member is in the second grade, but every year brings surprises, which is why organisers keep costumes suitable even for younger children. "We are happy to see the traditions continue," Yankova noted.

Yankova added that Dunavtsi has a vibrant community centre, Svetlina 1904. Community centre secretary Darina Ilieva organises various events, while the village Kuker group regularly attends masquerade festivals across Bulgaria.