Let the Carnival Begin… in Rethymno Crete

It’s carnival time on Crete, with the annual Rethymno Carnival in full swing as cheerful masqueraders roam the footpaths and alleys of the Venetian port city.

This year’s event, organized by the Region of Crete and the Greek National Tourist Organization, breaks all records with the participation of over 15,000 people, 47 groups and 34 floats.

The activities, which this year focus on the young or the young at heart will include the first Children’s Night Parade on February 21, paving the way for the grownups, who prepare for their own Night Parade.

The “Cretan Party: A Night in Black” promises to be a highlight of this year’s carnival to be held in the Old Town in the Venetian fort. Partygoers are invited to dress in the trademark Cretan black while they imbibe in traditional local spirit “tsikoudia”, Cretan wines and cocktails at a makeshift bar set up on Mikrasiaton Square.

Ash Thursday on February 12, the annual Masquerade Ball on Friday, the cyclothon featuring bicycle riders in masks on February 19 the 26th treasure hunt this Saturday and Sunday, as well as plenty of Greek song and dance throughout the carnival season promise to keep everyone on their toes.

The Carnival Season will peak with the Grand Parade, the burning of the Carnival King and a concert on the beach on February 22.

For those interested in joining the carnival fun in Rethymno Crete, tour operators in collaboration with local hoteliers have prepared package deals especially for the occasion. More at rethymnocarnival.gr.