CARNIVAL OF THASOS
The island of Thasos is famous for its carnival celebrations that take place in the villages Potamia, Limenas, Panagia, Rahoni, Skala Marion and Skala Limenarion.
Carnival events take place in a lot of villages of Thasos. It is a great opportunity for the residents to cheer up and have fun after the laziness of the winter. It is a chance for festive celebrations not only for them but also for the visitors of the island who can participate in these carnival events which have their roots back in the ancient god Dionysus. Therefore, we might say that this modern carnival of Thasos is somehow the continuation of the ancient Dionysian festivals which celebrated the end of the winter season and the beginning of the new life through spring.
On the last day of the Carnival, which is usually in the middle of March, improvised floats from the neighboring villages of Potamia and Panagia start parading at about 12 pm. Many people watch them. Fun, wine, traditional dance and caustic satirical comments about present political and social events are the main characteristics of the carnival. Another important element of the carnival is the dressing up of the participants into characters and people who are mostly shown on TV, such as politicians, actors, etc.
The Carnival of Thasos is a worth-visiting event because it gives the opportunity to the visitor to combine relaxing and enjoyable holiday along with the sightseeing that the island offers.
Source: http://www.go-thassos.gr/gr/about-thassos/culture-and-events
Dimitris P. ,class A2