Thracian Halloween: Bocuk Night



One unique and fascinating traditional Turkish festival is Bocuk Night, often referred to as the "Turkish Halloween." This celebration is originally Balkan culture and is held on the coldest night of winter, usually in January, in Edirne, a Thracian city in the west of Turkey. (This celebration is also rarely known even in Turkey, as it comes from Balkan culture.) In the past, people believed that a mythical creature called “Bocuk” would appear on this night, bringing fear and bad luck. To protect themselves, they would cook sweet pumpkin desserts, gather around fires, and tell ghost stories. Traditional customs included wearing white sheets or painting their faces white, like ghost.

Today, it is more lively, attendees are people from of all ages. Unlike in the past, when people would simply gather in their homes, modern celebrations feature colorful costumes, spooky makeup, festive parades, and street performances. Some traditions remain, such as eating pumpkin desserts, on the other hand, overall mood has changed to joyful celebration. 


(modern celebration's costume)

P.S. People from the Thracian part of Turkey are known for their joyful spirit—they love singing and dancing. They even dance with ghosts! Don’t let the ghosts take over your spirit, guys. I hope you enjoy life! ❤️



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