Patras, Greece – The city of Patras is buzzing with excitement as the annual carnival approaches, promising joy and an optimistic message that resonates year after year.
The festivities will officially commence with an opening ceremony on Saturday, January 18, at Georgiou Square.
This year, the celebration encompasses a three-day series of events, running from Friday, January 17, to Sunday, January 19, designed to enhance the festive atmosphere throughout the city.
For the first time, the traditional handover of the carnival banner to the mayor will take place on Friday morning, January 17, the official start of the Carnival period. At 10:30 am, preschool children will gather near the new town hall alongside the town crier, portrayed this year by actor Nikola Tsichlas, accompanied by the musical float. The children, adorned in carnival costumes and holding colorful fabrics and small carnival creations, will be greeted by the Music School’s band as they enter the town hall’s courtyard.
The children will present the carnival banner to Patras’ Mayor, Kostas Peletidis, followed by the cherished custom of “chocolate throwing,” a treat for those gathered.
The carnival banner will remain displayed at the town hall until the festivities culminate on Sunday, March 2.
Saturday, January 18, will feature the much-anticipated “Ntóros” event, set to bring a lively carnival spirit to the city center. Starting at 11:00 am, carnival groups will gather on the new Maisonos pedestrian street, embarking on a parade that will fill Georgiou Square with vibrant energy. The square will host a DJ and a dance program to further elevate the mood.
The evening’s opening ceremony at Georgiou Square, beginning at 9:00 pm, marks the pinnacle of the weekend’s celebrations. Attendees will be treated to a live performance by the band “Cubaneros,” offering an hour of beloved tunes.
The ceremony will also feature a narrative performance exploring the symbolism and themes of the carnival. According to the Municipal Enterprise for Carnival of Patras (KEDIP), the carnival’s essence is captured in the colors of the banner and embodied by a harlequin, who will guide participants through the rich history and cultural significance of the event through dance and visual storytelling.
Following this, Mayor Peletidis will officially announce the start of the Patras Carnival 2025, with KEDIP President Pavlos Skouras joining him to usher in the night’s grand finale. The evening will also include the traditional “chocolate wars,” with chocolate treats delighting the crowds.
In other exciting news, Eleni Bada has been named this year’s carnival queen. Born in Patras, Bada works as an assistant microbiologist, is passionate about dance, and enjoys athletics. Her deep-rooted connection to the Patras Carnival, which began at the age of six, was a key factor in her selection by the Public Benefit Enterprise’s committee.
As the city prepares to don its carnival guise, residents and visitors alike look forward to a celebration rich with tradition, energy, and community spirit.
