On 1 January, Kukeri fill the streets of Sinapovo village with the sound of their bells before making their way to Topolovgrad, where the celebration concludes with a traditional Kukeri horo in Osvobozhdenie Square. The Kukeri group from Sinapovo revived one of the region’s most colourful traditions in 2023, and since then the custom has become a significant event for the town, eagerly awaited by local residents.
According to old tradition, the Kukeri visit homes and offer blessings for health, fertility and prosperity. They wear frightening masks, attach heavy bells to their costumes and perform ritual dances to drive away evil forces.
The Kukeri tradition in Topolovgrad is closely connected with the celebration of Masurnitsa (Sirni Zagovezni) and other spring festivals.
Program
The processions and games begin in Sinapovo village and end in the centre of Topolovgrad, turning the day into a true celebration for young and old.