carnival

First day of Great Lent on the Orthodox calendar - Clean Monday - is celebrated with family gatherings and picnics, with Lenten dishes comprised of seafood, legumes and unleavened bread

A cornerstone of the festivities is the samba parade, where over 70 samba schools compete in elaborate performances at the iconic Sambadrome stadium

Greek Carnival traditions that date back to antiquity can still be experienced in many parts of the country. All you need is a mask and a smile.

At 11:00 am, children's carnival festivities featuring animators and face painting will be held at Dimitris Beis Park, Dionysiou Areopagitou Pedestrian Street, and Filopappou Hill.

Unbeknownst to many Greeks, Tsiknopempti (or 'Meat Thursday') shares striking similarities with pre-Lent celebrations around the world

Tsiknopempti is dedicated to eating meat and indulgence; the last chance before Lent ahead of Orthodox Easter.

Sunday marks the climax of the Carnival season in Greece and tens of thousands have gathered in the western port city of Patras to celebrate