Every spring in Bulgaria, koukeri (mummers or masquers) come out on the streets to drive the evil away. They dress in animal skins, have bells around their waists, carry sticks and perform dances through the town. This is the same ancient tradition as the Morris Dancers of England.
This year, starting March 8, only about a dozen koukeri were abroad in Straldja. Ten years ago, I'm told, more than 200 koukeri would be out in the streets. Also, in years past, koukeri were out simply from tradition. Today, they perform for donations. In a nation with massive unemployment, I suppose, survival is more important than tradition.
Rel Davis, Peace Corps Volunteer
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