Ивановденски маскирания в село Гиген, Плевенско. Минало и настояще
Ivan’s name day disguses in the village of Gigen, Pleven region. Past and present

Summary/Abstract: This article presents the custom of „Mechkari“ in the village of Gigen, Pleven region. The information is based on unpublished field materials and those from recent years. On Ivan’s nameday (old style, 20.01.), the people of Gigen celebrate the most revered holiday in the village through masquerade games, known as „Mechkari“. Following the all-Bulgarian masquerade tradition, the main moments are the walking around the houses, the blessings for health and fertility, and the final actions on the village square, including a traditional Bulgarian folk dance – horo. Only men participate in the custom, and the main ritual figures in the bear groups are an old man, an arapin, and a bride, necessarily accompanied by a whistler (musician). Each character is disguised with a costume, such as those of the old man and the bride representing the local bridal costumes. Their look is complemented by attributes such as a sword, a cane, a wine bottle, and straps with bells on the ankles. The custom of „Mechkari“ is local, observed, and passed downthrough generations from time immemorial to today.

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