The municipality of Athens has released the schedule for the Greek pre-Lent carnival (Apokries) events on Monday, stating that it has planned 80 events at 55 points in the city and its neighborhoods.
The pre-Lent festivities will commence at 11:30 am on Tsiknopempti (March 7) with music and events surrounding Varvakios Market, Monastiraki Square, and the nearby streets. At 12:00, the Vakhai musical society will commence their performance at Syntagma Square and proceed through Kotzia Square, concluding at Monastiraki Square.
The grand annual parade will occur on Sunday (March 17) in the city center, featuring entertainers and musicians.
The events will culminate on Clean Monday (March 18) at Filoppapou Hill, where participants will fly kites and engage in 'koulouma', the celebration of the first day of Lent outdoors with a picnic consisting of non-meat dishes. The Philharmonic Orchestra of Athens and the Charisma band will provide musical accompaniment.
Athens Mayor Charis Doukas stated, "For 23 days, every neighborhood in our city will be filled with music, dance, song, and traditional events," inviting everyone to "join in the festivities and share in the joy together."
(The schedule is available in Greek on the following page: https://www.cityofathens.gr/apokries-stin-athina-mia-megali-karnav/)
