A Shared Volunteer Experience in Pernik

The Surva Festival was one of the most unforgettable experiences of my ESC journey in Bulgaria. During the last three days of the festival, Pernik Youth Center hosted volunteers from all around Bulgaria and different countries, creating a warm, energetic and inspiring environment.

We spent these days together at the youth center, where we joined youth work activities, attended seminars, played games and had long conversations. It was such a beautiful feeling to share the same space with volunteers from different cultures, backgrounds and countries. Even though we all came from different places, we connected so naturally through laughter, curiosity and shared experiences.

The Roots and Meaning of Surva Festival

The Surva Festival in Pernik is one of the oldest and most significant masquerade events in Bulgaria and the Balkans. Officially known as the International Festival of Masquerade Games, it takes place every year during the last three days of January and brings together thousands of participants from across Bulgaria and around the world. The festival has deep roots in ancient pagan traditions that date back to Thracian times, when masked rituals were performed to ward off evil spirits, celebrate the end of winter, and welcome health, happiness, and a fruitful year ahead. The first organized Surva Festival was held in January 1966, and since then it has grown into the largest event of its kind in the region. Over the decades, Surva has gained international recognition: in 1995 the town of Pernik became a full member of the International Federation of Carnival Cities, and it has been proposed for inclusion on UNESCO’s list of protected intangible cultural heritage. The festival features elaborately handcrafted masks and costumes worn by the kukeri (masked performers), who jump, dance, and make loud sounds with bells to scare away bad forces — a living expression of Bulgaria’s rich folklore and communal spirit.

Experiencing the Festival Atmosphere

The festival itself was absolutely incredible. The costumes were truly impressive, full of details, colors, masks and powerful symbols. People from all over the world came to Pernik just to watch Surva. On the train from Sofia to Pernik, I even met two people from Portugal who were traveling only to experience this festival, and that moment made me realize how special and important this tradition truly is. The streets were filled with sound, music, bells and energy. It was loud, colorful, and alive in the best possible way.

Moments Shared with Fellow Volunteers

Walking through the festival together with my fellow volunteers made the experience even more meaningful. We explored the streets, watched the performances, took photos and shared our excitement with each other. One of the most memorable moments for me was attending an underground concert during the festival. It was such a unique experience.

A Personal and Cultural Reflection

I don’t know if there is a similar festival in Turkey, but personally, I had never been part of something like Surva. It felt completely new and meaningful. Being surrounded by tradition, music, people and collective energy made me feel deeply connected to the moment.

More Than a Festival

These three days in Pernik were not just about the festival; they were about connection, learning, sharing, and creating memories together. The Surva Festival showed me how culture can bring people together, and I feel very grateful to have experienced it from a volunteer’s perspective. It’s an experience I will carry with me for a long time.

Ayse Osmanli

Long Term ESC Volunteer in Kazanlak

with hosting organization YDCMA

27.01.2026