Tsiknopempti

Tsiknopempti is a week before Carnival Sunday, characterized by the large consumption of meat, family gatherings, and the smell of grilled meat. It takes place a few days before the start of the Great Lent.

Carnival Sunday

On Carnival Sunday, everyone dresses up as carnival characters and gathers in the town squares from noon. The municipality, in collaboration with local associations, organizes free boiled goat meat and wine for everyone. Carnival Sunday is marked by the Vlach wedding, the “gaitanaki” dance, the burning of the Carnival King, and festivities that continue until dawn.

Vlach Wedding

It is a comical reenactment of a Vlach wedding as it used to be celebrated in the past. Scenes that provoke laughter include the negotiations between the prospective in-laws, discussions about the dowry, preparations for the wedding, “the groom’s shaving,” the wedding ceremony itself, and the events of the couple’s first wedding night. The celebration concludes with a feast and dancing, accompanied by a traditional folk orchestra.

Gaitanaki

Gaitanaki is a traditional folk dance with ancient roots. It is usually danced by children who weave ribbons (gaitania) on a wooden pole to the accompaniment of music. This dance is performed in the streets, squares, and communal areas.

Burning of the Carnival King

On the last Sunday of Carnival, known as “Tyrini” Sunday, it is customary to burn the Carnival King. With the lighting of the fire and the burning of the Carnival King, it is believed that evil spirits, hatred, malice, and enmity among people are banished. The lighting of the fire during Carnival symbolizes the transition from winter to spring.

Koulouma – Flying Kite

Clean Monday follows Carnival Sunday. It is a nationwide custom that symbolizes the end of winter and the beginning of spring. Clean Monday is characterized by group outings to the countryside, fasting meals, and flying kites. Typically, in all villages, Koulouma events are organized, either in squares or other locations by local associations and the municipality, offering free fasting food (such as bean soup, olives, and halva). After the meal, it is time to fly kites, dance, and celebrate.