Mask carnival, Gypsy accompanying Zvoncari pronounced Zvon-charee, the tradition of wearing frightening masks to drive away the evil spirits of winter pre-dates Christian times. In the weeks preceeding the main carnival, the Zvoncari parade the streets bearing clubs and jangling the heavy bells tied around their waists. Traditionally it is the men who fulfil the role, accompanied by other men dressed as gypsy girls in equally grotesque masks