Patras has officially entered carnival mode as the city gears up for the much-anticipated opening ceremony of its renowned cultural festivity. Scheduled for 9 p.m. in Georgiou Square, the ceremony promises an evening of vibrant entertainment and community celebration.
The festivities commenced early in the day with the “Ntóros” action, which brought a lively carnival spirit to the city center. At 11:00 a.m., groups of carnival enthusiasts gathered on the newly established Maizonos pedestrian street. They embarked on a colorful parade that culminated in Georgiou Square, generating a palpable carnival buzz. The square was alive with music as a DJ set the stage for an energetic dance program.
The evening’s main event will feature a live musical performance by the popular band “Cubaneros,” known for their engaging renditions of beloved songs. The performance, expected to last around an hour, is set to captivate the audience.
In addition to the musical showcase, attendees will experience a ceremonial “narration” rich with the symbolic messages of the carnival season. According to the public enterprise of the Municipality of Patras, “Carnival of Patras,” the essence of the city’s carnival spirit is captured in the three colors of the official carnival banner. This spirit flows from the gathered crowd in the square to its embodiment by the Harlequin, a central figure in the celebration.
The Harlequin will guide participants through three pivotal scenes of Patras’ carnival tradition, each spotlighting aspects of disguise, transformation, festive parade energy, and the dynamic interplay of dance and rhythm. These scenes weave together the music and imagery that define the carnival experience.
The evening will be marked by a special announcement from Patras’ Mayor Kostas Peletidis, officially declaring the start of the Patras Carnival 2025. Alongside the chairman of the Carnival Committee, Pavlos Skouras, the mayor will signal the grand climax of the evening’s celebration.
Adding to the tradition, the customary chocolate war will also take place, with chocolate throwers delighting the crowd by showering them with sweet treats.
Notably, the carnival banner has been on display at the Patras City Hall since yesterday morning. In a heartwarming gesture, it was handed over for the first time by preschool-aged children, marking a new tradition in this beloved cultural event.
As the opening ceremony unfolds, residents and visitors alike are set to revel in the unique and captivating atmosphere that heralds the arrival of the carnival season in Patras.
