Athens Carnival Kicks Off on February 16 with Free Events

Photo source: Municipality of Athens.

Starting on February 16 and for 12 days, the Municipality of Athens launches its carnival celebrations with dozens of free events, concerts, and happenings through to February 27.

Athens Mayor Kostas Bakoyannis invites city residents and visitors to join in the carnival (Apokries) fun.

The municipality has organized 67 events at 55 different spots across the Greek capital starting on Tsiknopempti (Smoky Thursday) and coming to a close on February 27, Kathara Deftera (Clean Monday) with traditional kite-flying on Filopappou Hill to the accompaniment of traditional Greek music and the customary “lagana” flat bread.

Photo source: Municipality of Athens.

Tsiknopempti – marking the last meat-eating day before Lent – will take place this year on February 16 at the Varvakeios Meat Market with a Greek music concert.

Greek carnival traditions come to life at popular Athens neighborhoods including Kypseli, Plaka,  Monastiraki, and Thissio and along the Areopagitou walkway at the foot of the Acropolis. Expect concerts, masquerade parties, parades, performances, treasure hunts, dances, educational events, marching bands, mask-making workshops and lots of percussion to set the rhythm.

Don’t miss the Grand Children’s Carnival Celebration at Zappeio Park on February 19 from 11am to 2pm with jugglers, dancers, magicians and stilts men setting the mood.

Photo source: Municipality of Athens.

“This year, let’s meet in the neighborhoods, streets and squares of the city so that we can enjoy together Athens Apokries,” said Bakoyannis.

On February 25, the Athens Technopolis will be the place to party while the kiddies enjoy exciting activities including treasure hunts, face-painting and a bubble-parade. And on Carnival Sunday (February 26), DJs will keep you on your toes with plenty of disco music at the Kypseli Open Market.

More info on upcoming events here.