In January 2026, Pernik becomes Europe’s masquerade capital again

From January 16 to 25, the town of Pernik (Southwestern Bulgaria) will host the 32nd International Festival of Masquerade Games “Surva”, marking 60 years since the festival’s inception in 1966.

Due to enormous interest and a record number of participants, for the first time the parades will take place over two consecutive weekends – January 17–18 and 24–25.

• Surva, a festival that is a triumph of strength and youth

• Surva is the heart of Pernik and Pernik is the heart of Surva

At a press conference, Pernik Deputy Mayor Stefan Krastev said that over 13,000 participants and more than 30 foreign groups from France, the USA, Italy, Portugal, Croatia, Greece, Slovenia, North Macedonia, Romania, Serbia, and other countries are expected. The 2025 edition of the International Festival of Masquerade Games “Surva” featured over 20 foreign groups and more than 12,000 participants.

Surva 2026 will feature a rich ten-day program including concerts, exhibitions, performances, art installations, workshops, and themed events that blend tradition and modernity.

Edited by Ivo Ivanov

Translated by Kostadin Atanasov