Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
February
While February is an unlikely time to head to Greece, if you like a party and
can time your visit with Carnival, it's well worth it.
Carnival Season
Carnival season kicks off three weeks prior to the fasting of Lent, from mid-January to
late February or early March. A host of minor events leads up to a wild weekend of cos-
tume parades, colourful floats, feasting and traditional dancing. Celebrations see distinct
regional variations; the Patra Carnival is the largest, while the most bizarre is on Skyros.
Clean Monday (Shrove Monday)
On the first day of Lent (a day which is referred to as Kathara Deftera), people take to
the hills throughout Greece to enjoy picnicking and kite-flying.
March
The islands are still sleepy but the weather is warming up, making March a
quiet, relaxed time to visit. Although the national calendar is quiet, there
are countless religious festivals that towns and entire islands celebrate
with great gusto.
Independence Day
The anniversary of the hoisting of the Greek flag by independence supporters at Moni
Agias Lavras is celebrated with parades and dancing on 25 March. This act of revolt
marked the start of the War of Independence.
April
In Greece, the biggest day of the year is Easter when the country, particu-
larly the islands, shakes off its winter slumber. The holiday weekend is
