Surva is an ancient Balkan ritual used to revive the earth on the New Year. It’s a wonderful community celebration, and the communities are big. Here is an example of a modern day Pagan survival in good health in Europe. It apparently occurs all over Bulgaria. Here is another clip with animal costumes included.
The friend who told me about this celebration pointed out that unlike the old days, women are also dancing now, and it is obvious that this is popular with young people.
It goes on day and night.
The bells are to frighten away bad spirits. Long ago Christian authorities banned it, and the harvest suffered. Now, even though very few if any Bulgarians would call themselves Pagans, it is celebrated all over the country despite what the churchmen prefer. It has fascinating resemblances to the parade in Wickerman.
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