Apokrias runs, this year, from Sunday 5th Feb to Sunday 26th. It is the time in the Greek Orthodox tradition of preparation for Lent.
It begins with the opening of the book of the Triodion (the three holy sacraments) on the first Sunday.
The second week is ‘meat week’..... the last week of eating meat until after Lent. The highlight of this week is Tsiknonpempti or ‘Burnt Thursday’. Traditionally this is the day when everyone grilled their meat. In these modern times it is more usual to go to a taverna for a meat meal.
The third week is sometimes called ‘Cheese Week’, as those who adhere to the Orthodox traditions mostly eat dairy products and eggs.... no meat allowed until after Lent. This week culminates in Tyrofagis Sunday on the final day of Apokrias (26th Feb) which is the day when most Carnival Parades are held all over Greece. Some parades are held on the Saturday. Over the days preceding the carnivals many people dress up in fancy costumes and masks and of course the processions through the towns with floats, bands and much noise and frivolity are great fun to watch.... or participate in.
After the excitement of the Parades, the following day is the first day of Lent. Kathari Deftera more usually known to us as ‘Clean Monday’ is celebrated by trips out for Lenten picnics and flying kites. It is a Greek bank holiday.
On Lefkas there are usually two Carnival Parades.... one in Nidri on the Saturday and the other in Lefkas Town on the following day.