Strumica, 1 March 2025 (MIA) - Strumica is set to stage its carnival parade on Saturday with the carnival's king declaring the beginning of the event.

Strumica carnival celebrations began on Friday as the carnival's prince and princess, Mitko Drvoshanov and Katerina Drvoshanova, were picked during a ball that was held at the city's Sirius Hotel. 

The event was attended by numerous carnival-goers from the country and abroad, also including Strumica Mayor Kostadin Kostadinov and his partner dressed as Vikings.

"The costumes, made with special effort and love, bring a unique beauty to the evening, promising an unforgettable carnival adventure. Every detail, every look evokes the spirit of tradition, as well as the modern creativity that makes our carnival even more specific. Strumica, the heart of the carnival tradition, continues to shine with each new year," Kostadinov posted on Facebook. 

Thirty-five groups are expected to participate in Saturday's carnival parade in different categories with participants from the country, Croatia, Serbia, Montenegro and Bulgaria, and the carnival procession is to last about three hours. A jury will announce the best masks from the carnival and award prizes. 

The carnival celebrations continue on Sunday, on Forgiveness Day (Prochka) with a traditional Children's Carnival, where the young people of Strumica will parade in their costumes.

Photo: Strumica Municipality