It is based on old Pagan beliefs and rituals. Essentially the Carnival is the ritual of calling after Saint Basil the Great, which coincides with the Twelve Days of Orthodox Christmas and the Orthodox New Year. The festivity is dedicated to Saint Basil the Great. The participants of the Carnival are known as “Vasilicari” and they are always the citizens of Vevcani. Masks, which reflect events from previous year, express humor and sarcasm. Some of the most common costumes include devils, demons and other mythical characters. During the raucous proceedings, traditional music is played on zurlas (a traditional double-reed woodwind instrument) and drums. Carnival and the village of Vevcani officially became a part of the World Federation of Carnival Cities.

Defile of masks during Vevcani Carnival which is held in city Vevcani in southern Macedonia. It is believed that the custom is over 1,400 years old. It is based on old Pagan beliefs and rituals and it is dedicated to Saint Basil the Great. The participants of the Carnival are known as “Vasilicari” and they are always the citizens of Vevcani. Masks, which reflect events from previous year, express humor and sarcasm. Some of the most common costumes include devils, demons and other mythical characters. During the raucous proceedings, traditional music is played on zurlas (a traditional double-reed woodwind instrument) and drums.

Photo Saša Đorđević