Since the beginning of the new year, people started talking about carnival in Cyprus. Locals organize big celebrations for this festivity and even people from abroad fly to Limassol – the center of the event – to enjoy the party atmosphere.
The origins of Carnival date back to the ancient Greeks, when celebrations were held in honor of god Dionissos. At that time, people had fun for days while wearing costumes, partying and playing games. Cypriots kept this tradition and for more than one century, they have been celebrating the period before the fasting for Easter in the same way.
Carnival in Cyprus lasts two weeks. The first week – known as the Meat Week – represents the last week when people eat meat before Easter. “Tsiknopempti” (meaning Shrove Thursday) marks the start of the whole festival. On that day, Cypriots are used to cook and eat Souvlaki, and the smell of grilled meat runs through the streets of every city. The second week is called the Cheese Week and it’s when Cypriots are supposed to consume dairy products. On the last Sunday of this week, the Grand Carnival parade takes place in Limassol. The city is decorated at its best and full of people in costumes dancing, feasting, and playing. The big parade precedes the Green Monday which marks the beginning of Lent.
People from all around the island and from abroad gather in Limassol during that weekend. Hotels, cars and busses are full of adults and children ready to enjoy the celebrations. Carnival in Cyprus is a special event that people living on the island should definitely experience.
