Gabrovo joins European carnival cities

“If ‘The end is near – let’s go out with style!’ is madness, then it is the healthiest madness we can experience together,” said Deputy Mayor Maria Yozova at the opening ceremony.

During the event, an hourglass was set in motion, counting down to the celebration’s grand finale on 16 May 2026. “There are 187 days left, and preparations begin today,” Yozova added.

For locals, this so-called fifth season is a time of humour, satire, and good cheer. Gabrovo proudly calls itself the capital of humour in Bulgaria — and the carnival is its brightest proof.