🎭 Join the Thrilling Kukeri Festival Surva 2026 in Bulgaria!

November 13, 2025

Hi travel enthusiasts đź‘‹

Surva is a truly unique winter festival that combines ancient mystery, wild costumes, and unforgettable fun. Meet the Kukeri: Bulgaria’s centuries-old masked tradition in which locals wear elaborate monster costumes to chase away evil spirits and bring luck, health, and prosperity for the new year.

Kukeri in Pernik, Bulgaria, wearing traditional folklore masks

đź“Ť Where: Pernik, Bulgaria (35km away from the capital Sofia)
🗓️ When: January 23rd to 25th 2026

This January, the town of Pernik, just outside Sofia, will host the spectacular Surva Festival. This is the largest Kukeri carnival in the world and an absolute must-see!

Imagine swirling dancers in wild-animal masks, huge copper bells ringing to the rhythm of ancient rituals, and a feast of colors and sounds that leaves you breathless.

This is not just a show — it’s an experience that will take you deep into Bulgaria’s soul.

Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or family (yes, kids love it too), our expert guides will show you the best spots to witness the action up close. You’ll get incredible photos, learn about Thracian and Balkan traditions, and even have the chance to explore nearby cultural gems like Sofia, Plovdiv, and Rila Monastery.

  • Private tours: Starting from 240 EUR per vehicle;

  • Group tours: 60 EUR per person;

  • Addons (such as Rila Monastery): ask us for a quote.

Secure your place with Private Guide Bulgaria and be part of the magic! Let us help you plan the journey you’ll never forget.

Travelers loved seeing the kukeri with us

An unforgettable day with Nenko – Experiencing Surva up close!

For our trip to Bulgaria and the visit to the unique Surva Festival in Pernik, we decided to book a private tour guide – and it was the best decision we could have made! Our heartfelt thanks go to Nenko from Private Bulgaria Tours, who managed to bring us closer to Bulgaria, its culture, and its traditions in a truly special way.

We were curious whether it would even be possible to gain deeper insights into the country and its people at such a large festival – and Nenko proved that it absolutely is! With his enthusiasm, extensive knowledge, and warm personality, he allowed us to immerse ourselves in the world of the masked rituals and shared the fascinating stories behind them.

It was also important to us to travel fairly and sustainably, supporting local structures rather than just global brands. Nenko shared these values and took us to authentic encounters beyond the usual tourist paths. The day was not only informative and enriching but simply wonderful. By the time we said goodbye in the evening, it felt like we were parting ways with a friend. We are certain that we will visit this beautiful country again – and that is largely thanks to this exceptional experience.

Blagodarya, Private Guide Bulgaria Team!

Anne & Mo

Best,

Adriana from Private Guide Bulgaria