Chasing away bad spirits in Ivaylovgrad

Ivaylovgrad celebrates Kukei day, the traditional Bulgarian ritual to scare away evil spirits. Costumed men perform a dance and walk through the village, to chase away the bad spirits and provide a good harvest, health and happiness for the inhabitants. The costumes cover most of the body and include decorated wooden masks of animals (sometimes double-faced) and large bells attached to the belt.

After going around the village they gather at the square to dance wildly and amuse the people. The ritual varies by region but its essence remains largely the same.

This ritual has ancient Thracian origins.

Kukeri team of Ivaylovgrad neighborhood Ladzha is one of the best in the country.