Rethymnon Apokries

About

Apokries is carnival time in Greece (‘apokria’ meaning ‘absence from meat’) — stemming from ancient Greek times when the god of wine and fertility, Dionysus, was celebrated. It runs for three weeks before the 40 days of Lent and you can expect many celebrations, festivities, and much merriment throughout the country. On the Greek island of Crete, the biggest carnival is held in the town of Rethymnon, an old Venetian port town on the north coast. Three weeks of organised events, parties, and street parades culminate on the last day with a float procession and the locals dressing up. As a visitor, don't think you can get away without dressing up too! Many shops sell carnival masks.