The last weekend of carnival will be celebrated throughout Greece on Saturday and Sunday, as Monday marks the religious holiday of "Shrove Monday", the beginning of Lent in the predominately Christian Orthodox east Mediterranean country. Orthodox Easter will be celebrated on Sunday, April 4 this year. The western port-city of Patras traditionally boasts the biggest and best-known carnival festivities in Greece, although several other regions -- especially in northern Greece and the Ionian islands -- have distinct customs and rites, many predating Christianity and based on ancient pagan rituals. Some 30,000 carnival participants, including Italian acrobats and drummers, are expected to parade through Patras' main thoroughfare, both on foot and atop floats.
On the February 12-13 weekend, the party moves to the Zappeion, the classic Carnival destination for children, where a super-sized stage will host various events. The venue will be decorated Carnival-style, where floats, a Maypole, jugglers, stilt-walkers and a DJ playing a special music programme await youngsters. Balloons, masks and other items will be handed out to all children.
Additionally, the Youth and Sport Organisation has organized 10 children's parties, to be held at the Municipality's Cultural Centres, with the aim of giving children the opportunity to not only have fun but also communicate.
Finally, the City of Athens Philharmonic promises musical surprises for all city residents.
Carnival in Athens, Greece will conclude on Clean Monday (Kathara Deftera), February 15, with kite-flying accompanied by the traditional party featuring music and dance from throughout Greece, to be held at four city locations: Filopappou Hill (10:00), Akadimia Platonos (11:00), Lambraki Hill (11:00) and KAPAPS Woods (11:00).
This year, we hope to see everyone at the City of Athens Carnival Events, for an Athens full of smiles, rhythm, spirit and imagination!
For further information, call +30 210 3621601 or the Citizens Helpline 1595.
13.02.2010
