In Athens, the Carnival (Apokries) isn’t just a party; it is a 3,000-year-old tradition. Long before the parades of today, the streets of Athens echoed with the worship of Dionysus, the God of Wine, Fertility, and Theater.
Today, as we walk through the historic alleys of Plaka and the vibrant corners of Psiri , we aren’t just tourists,we are part of a timeless lineage of celebration.
The Ancient Roots: The Anthesteria
In Ancient Athens, the precursor to Carnival was the Anthesteria, a festival celebrating the opening of new wine barrels. It was a time of “meraki” and excess, where the social hierarchies were flipped, and the city surrendered to joy.
Carnival in Plaka & Psiri: The Modern Soul
Today, the heart of the celebration beats in Plaka and Psiri. Here, the “Old Athens” charm meets the festive energy of today. You will see Koudounatoi (bell-bearers) and traditional music, but more importantly, you will smell the charcoal and the feast.
  • The Meat-Fare (Kreatini): Carnival is traditionally the period of preparing for Lent. This means meat is the star. On our Athens Ultimate 4 hours Food Tour, we take you to the butchers of the Central Market to see how the “Kreatini” traditions are still honored with the finest local cuts.
  • The Family Table: For Greeks, Carnival is about the Kyriaki tis Tyrinis (Cheese Sunday). To feel the warmth of this tradition, our Sunday Lunch: Authentic Greek Family Dining in Athens is the ultimate way to eat like a local family during this festive season.
Q&A: Navigating Athens During Carnival
Q: Where can I find the most authentic Carnival food in Athens? A: Skip the commercial “street food” stalls. The real flavors are hidden in private kitchens and local microbreweries. To taste the modern side of the feast, join our Greek Craft Beer Tasting & Food Pairing Tour in Psiri, where craft tradition meets carnival spirit.
Q: Can I have a luxury experience during the crowded Carnival season? A: Absolutely. While the streets are loud, we offer sanctuary. Escape the noise with A Private Table in Athens: An Ultra-Exclusive Greek Dinner Experience. We provide a secluded view of the Acropolis, allowing you to witness the city’s glow without being lost in the crowd.
Taste the History with Athens FoodSteps
Whether you are learning to cook traditional festive recipes in our Cooking Lessons in a Local’s Home or enjoying a 5-course feast with our Luxury Greek Menu & Wine Pairing Experience by the Coastline, we ensure you feel the “Soul” of the city.
Don’t just watch the history of Athens. Taste it.