The start of this year's Strumica International Carnival will be marked on Saturday by a traditional masked ball in one of Strumica's top hotels, Sirius.

Over 500 costumed people are expected to attend the opening, where the central event is dedicated to crowning the prince and princess of the carnival.

On Sunday, Strumica will host the children's carnival, while Monday marks the start of the pre-Easter fast season.

The main carnival event will be held on Tuesday and is expected to be attended by over 2,000 participants from Macedonia and abroad.

A three-day annual carnival also starts this evening in Prilep.

The international carnival called "Procka - the Day of Forgiveness" is organised by mayor Marjan Risteski and "Bear Keepers" association.

The Day of Forgiveness according to the Orthodox Church is a feast which precedes the Honorable Fast Season (Great Lent), the greatest fasting period which prepares all Christians for the greatest feast of the church year, Easter.

The Prilep carnival is expected to be attended by numerous guests from Macedonia, Ukraine, Serbia, Bulgaria and Slovenia.