It's carnival season all over Greece. Different regions celebrate in different ways, although all carnivals in Greece are linked with ancient pagan rituals such as those in honour of the God Dionysus performed in the dead of Winter in anticipation of Spring. Our town boasts the largest and most spectacular
carnival in Greece. It is considered that its present form originated in the 1800s, established by the town's affluent offspring who had studied abroad, mainly Italy, and once home decided to organise parties based on Venetian traditions. There are other influences including the rich culture of the Ionion islands and the French army stationed in town after independance from Ottoman rule. The port's shipping links with Italy and the West have further ensured its western characteristics.
History lesson aside, today the children's carnival took place, one week before the grand parade. Around 8000 children took part with their mums and dads in what is an immensely fun and colourful parade. Just to give you an idea,
here are some photos from previous years.
And here are some photos of
this year's carnival by local photographer Chris Kosmas.
There were so many people that it was impossible to find a spot to draw. After the parade I sat in the empty seats in the town square and settled in trying to draw the swirl around me. You need to be quick to draw kids I can tell ya! I need practice.
Για μια γρήγορη αναδρομή στην ιστορία του Πατρινού καρναβαλιού πηγαίνετε εδώ.
Για άλλη μια χρoνιά είχαμε μια εντυπωσιακή παρέλαση στο καρναβάλι των μικρών. Μετά την παρέλαση έκατσα πάνω στις εξέδρες στην πλατεία και προσπάθησα να ζωγραφήσω τα πιτσιρίκια. Δύσκολο εγχείρημα παιδιά. Στασό δεν έχουν. Θέλω εξάσκησει!
Small 10x15cm Fabriano sketchbook Pencil + oil pastel
