On January 24th and 25th, Pernik hosted the traditional gathering of traditional dancers (kukeri). This is definitely one of the most interesting events in Bulgaria and the biggest masquerade festival in the country.

Nearly 5600 participants attended this year’s festival, and the organizers claim that over 100 000 people watched the festival. The procession of the 90 dancing groups began at 10:00 AM on January 24th and went on until 18:00 PM. The weather in Pernik was pleasant and the rain stopped early.