Vevchani, 13 January 2024 (MIA) - The official part of the Vevchani carnival, featuring the traditional parade of masks that satirically portrays events in public and political life, both domestically and internationally over the past year, will kick off Saturday.

In its fifteen century-old tradition, the Vevchani carnival is always held on Orthodox St. Basil's day, marking the beginning of the New Year by the Julian calendar.

The participants in the carnival find an inspiration for their masks in old pagan beliefs and rituals, while some of the masks are based on political and social events, but in a satirical context.

The Vevchani carnival will take place on January 12-14.

According to the program, DJ Ampov, Younge Daddy, Best of Igor Dzhambazov, Gugu Hare band and Nokaut performed on Friday.

Akustik band live, Naum Petreski, Vevchani zurna and drums orchestra, Pero Beli and Koki Bioritam will take the stage on Saturday.

The carnival will end with Sunday's traditional burning of the masks.

The Vevchani carnival is considered intangible cultural heritage of North Macedonia and the Ministry of Culture has supported it this year with Mden 1.8 million (EUR 30,000).

Photo: MIA archive