OoYes – Behind the Scenes of Gabrovo Carnival 2025

The 2025 Gabrovo Carnival once again transformed the city into a sea of color, smiles, and imagination. OoYes had the honor of being the logistics partner behind the scenes—ensuring excellent organization, safety, and comfort for thousands of attendees.

On May 17, 2025, the streets of Gabrovo filled with over 2,000 participants and more than 90 vibrant carnival displays. Spectators from across Bulgaria—and even beyond its borders—gathered to experience one of the country’s most beloved and spectacular public events.

With the support of Gabrovo Municipality, the OoYes team provided:

As always, for us at OoYes, logistics is not just a service—it’s part of the experience. Every guest should feel comfortable, safe, and free—even when surrounded by thousands of happy faces, music, dancing, and costumes.

The Gabrovo Carnival has deep historical roots, dating back to the late 19th century, when it was originally held under the name "Olelijnya," on the Saturday before Lent. In the early 20th century, it merged with the local tradition of masquerade balls, and in 1965, the first modern-day parade was officially held.

After a brief hiatus during the 1990s, the carnival was revived in 1998. Since 2000, Gabrovo has been a proud member of the Foundation of European Carnival Cities (FECC). Today, the event stands as a national symbol of Bulgarian humor and satire, attracting thousands of visitors from across the globe.

In true Gabrovo spirit, this year’s theme—“Let’s Bark Up the Right Tree”—was playful, bold, and perfectly aligned with the local flair for satire. The festive procession followed its traditional route: from Aprilov Boulevard through Vuzrazhdane Square and ending at the roundabout near the city’s medical center.

This year’s parade featured participants from as far as Japan, South Korea, Romania, and Greece—proving the growing international significance of the event. The finale featured the symbolic “cutting of the cat’s tail,” a long-standing ritual performed by Mayor Tanya Hristova with an oversized pair of scissors, met with loud applause and many smiles.

At OoYes, we believe that every great event needs a solid backbone—a reliable logistics team that manages the often invisible details that make an experience seamless.

The Gabrovo Carnival is more than just a show—it’s a cultural phenomenon. And we are proud to be part of it.