Babari 2026 | The Second Day of Vasilica in Bair, Bitola – 14 January | PART 5

This project is supported by UNESCO, through the “Culture and Creativity for the Western Balkans” (CC4WBs), a project funded by the European Union that aims to foster dialogue in the Western Balkans by enhancing the cultural and creative sectors for increased socio-economic impact. @UNESCOVeniceOffice #CC4WBs #CCI #culture #EU #genderequality ⸻ On 14 January, Vasilica continues in Bair, Bitola, North Macedonia, beginning the second day of the ritual. The procession moves through a wider part of the neighborhood, reaching areas where different community groups live, and gradually descends into the city center, the main street, markets, and squares of Bitola. The Bride — a man dressed as a woman, a liminal ritual figure — remains central, dancing continuously, channeling the ritual energy through movement. Her body, not words, conveys the New Year’s renewal and guides the unfolding of the rite. The Babari follow and guard her, their animal skins, bells, and masks creating a protective, chaotic energy. People along the route participate naturally, offering coins, refreshments, and encouragement, becoming part of the ritual’s living pulse. Historical context: Vasilica is a millennia-old winter ritual, originally pagan, now integrated with the Christian feast of Saint Basil (Old New Year). It belongs to a wider Balkan and European tradition of masked winter rituals, where movement, noise, and masks protect the community, drive away evil, and channel seasonal energy. These practices are living, embodied traditions, passed down orally for generations. ⸻ #Babari #Bitola #Bair #Macedonia #NorthMacedonia #Mask #Masks #Tradition #Masquerade #GoatSkin #AnimalSkin #Zurna #Drum #Ethnography #Anthropology #CulturalAnthropology #Culturalheritage Ritual #Rite #Music #EthnoMusicology #Festival #newyear ⸻ If you liked this video, please 👇 👍 LIKE, 🔔 SUBSCRIBE and 💬 COMMENT for more content! ⸻ 🌟 Follow us on our other profiles: Instagram: / tijanatimebomb TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dromenaworld?... Telegram: https://t.me/dromenaworld ⸻ ✨ Stay connected for more updates and cultural content!