VOICED: New Year bear festival in Romania

In the small town of Common St in eastern Romania, ritual dances with bear furs are a celebrated tradition believed to ward off evil spirits for the New Year. These dances, rooted in pre-Christian royal customs, involve performers wearing bear furs and visiting homes to drive away negative energies. Romania, home to a significant population of brown bears, views the animal as a symbol of strength and courage. The furs, passed down through generations, are carefully preserved due to their high value. While the tradition's spiritual efficacy is debated, it undeniably draws people together, especially during tough economic times.

What is the primary purpose of the bear dance tradition in Common St, Romania?

• To celebrate the harvest season

• To ward off evil spirits

• To honor the local government

• To welcome tourists

What is the belief associated with chasing away evil spirits for the New Year?

• It strengthens family bonds

• It leaves only good spirits behind

• It brings good luck and prosperity

• It ensures a bountiful harvest

What does the brown bear symbolize in Romanian culture?

• Wisdom and knowledge

• Strength and courage

• Peace and harmony

• Wealth and prosperity

Why are bear furs considered valuable in Romanian tradition?

• They are used for making clothes

• They are a symbol of wealth

• They are passed down through generations

• They are used in religious ceremonies

What is one certain outcome of the bear dance tradition during difficult economic times?

• It boosts the local economy

• It brings people out onto the streets

• It increases local tourism

• It reduces crime rates