Patra Carnival Kicks Off with Dozens of Happenings and Fun

Carnival season has kicked off in Greece, with the coastal town of Patra setting the rhythm and ready to welcome visitors to the revelry which culminates with the Grand Parade on Sunday, March 10.

The opening ceremony which took place with a series of events on central Georgiou Square also served as the official launch of the 54th Hidden Treasure Game and offered a taste of what’s in store.

This year the search for the hidden treasure will be broadcast through live streaming with more updates on social media.

The official launch included handing over the 2019 carnival banner to the mayor of the city, Kostas Peletidis, to the accompaniment of traditional music and amid the customary “chocolate war”.

One of the leading attractions at the Patra carnival is the Grand Parade to kick off on Sunday on March 10, where visitors join the locals in the merrymaking. Events come to close at Agios Nikolaos Pier at 9pm on March 10 with the burning of the Carnival King with spectacular fireworks, music and dance, paving the way for the beginning of Lent.

A highlight this year is the Kiddies Carnival Parade starting at 11am on March 3, aimed at youngsters with a wide variety of parallel events and happenings including workshops, interactive mask-making, face-painting sessions, and clown shows.

Adults shouldn’t miss the historic Bourboulia Ball, where revellers are allowed to enter only if they wear masks. Other activities include masquerade fun with revelry in the city streets, parties, treasure hunts, and night parades.

Photos: @karnavalipatras