The Greek Apokries (Carnival)

The Greek Carnival and its origin!

In Greek, Carnival is called Apokries which means literally saying goodbye to meat - Apoxh apo kreas - apo-kreas. It is a great break between Christmas celebrations and Easter. The origin and ancient roots of the Greek Carnival are connected with pagan rituals, especially the celebrations in honour of Dionysus, who was the Greek god of wine, ecstasy and feast. The period of Carnival is a period of release in which people escape from their everyday life and externalise their passions with the help of disguise.

Historically, celebrations and events are organised everywhere and for everybody: children and adults! They are dressed in funny costumes, dance, sing and participate in parades. Main events are happening in Patras, Xanthi and Rethymnon, Crete. Greek Carnival is a great feast of dance, wine and meat before the sacrifices and fasting of Lent.

If you enjoy it and are looking to prepare something at home to celebrate even with just your family, then check my link for some Greek finger food ideas 😉 HERE!! Photo below with a few ideas!

This Photo: Great Sunday Parade in Patras

Apokries last 3 weeks. In the first week families are preparing that is why it's known as Profoni (which means precursor, forerunner). The second week is called Kreatini i.e. dedicated to meat. Saturdays are dedicated to the memory of the dead and are called Psychosavvata (Souls’ Saturdays). The third week is called Tyrini i.e. dedicated to cheese.

After three weeks filled with fun and good food, “Clean Monday” follows. It is the first day of the fasting period and traditionally, a variety of Lenten food and seafood is consumed. It is called Clean because it's the day that the preparation for Easter begins with the purifying of body and soul. Clean Monday signifies the 40 days fasting period before Easter.

This Photo: An ancient, terracotta Greek Vase showing the God Dionyssus’ feast about 550 B.C., attributed to Lydos