When we think about Corfu, we immediately imagine spacious white beaches, charming villages, and delicious food. But this island is also home to a variety of ancient traditions and festivities that are celebrated to this day. Today, we will explore Corfu Carnival and discuss its traditions and ancient history.
Introduction to the Corfu Carnival
Even though not as famous as the Carnival of Venice and Rio de Janeiro, the Corfu Carnival is a great occasion to immerse yourself in this unique culture while enjoying one of the most authentic experiences you can have on this Greek island.
From the delicious food typical of this festivity to its many traditions and elaborate costumes, you definitely won’t regret a trip to Corfu during this unique period of the year. But what shall you expect from this festivity?
Historical Background of the Corfu Carnival
Corfu Carnival is believed to be incredibly old. This festivity was already celebrated in ancient Greek times, though back then, it was in honor of Dionysus, the god of wine. This event soon spread to Ancient Rome, where it became known as Bacchanalia, in honor of the Roman god of wine, Bacchus.
What is most impressive about the Bacchanalia is not the huge amounts of alcohol consumed or the endless parties but how societal norms suddenly ceased to exist.
Social classes in ancient Rome greatly impacted daily life. The life of an ordinary citizen was utterly different from that of a slave or a patrician, a term used to refer to a member of a long-established wealthy family. Yet none of this mattered during the Bacchanalia, and all social classes were suddenly free to mingle with each other.
Historians don’t have a specific date when this festivity was first introduced in Corfu. However, we do know that Carnival was already celebrated in the Middle Ages and was probably brought to the island by Venetian merchants and traders. Between the 14th and 18th centuries, Corfu was, in fact, ruled by the Venetians, and during this period, it adopted many of their traditions of this culture.
Key Traditions
Corfu Carnival is associated with a variety of unique traditions. One of the most famous is Corfiot Petegoletsia, a fancy word that simply means ‘gossip.’ During the Corfu Carnival, a group of locals re-enact this tradition in what may be called a form of street theater.
The actors and actresses sit at the windows of local houses overlooking the streets and exchange juicy gossip. Unfortunately, you won’t be able to understand a single word as these actors and actresses speak the local dialect while exchanging the latest news concerning political authorities and local scandals.
Another common tradition is the wedding. All local men gather in a single house and dress up the groom, while the women do the same in another house, helping the bride get ready. But there’s a twist. Both groom and bride are men, with the bride traditionally having a huge mustache! Unfortunately, it won’t be a happy ceremony. An actor dressed as a demon will constantly try to destroy the wedding while the participants keep shouting obscenities and teasing each other.
Costume Culture
If you have ever seen photos of the Carnival in Venice, you probably have a good idea of the popular masks and costumes people wear during this festivity.
Unlike the famous Carnival of Rio de Janeiro, Carnival in Corfu is an incredibly old tradition, something that is well reflected in the costumes of the people parading on the street. Visitors will be able to witness intricate dresses that seem to have been stolen from a movie set in the 17th century. Excess is key.
You’ll find people wearing massive gowns, colorful corsets, and extravagant shoes. Participants often wear smiling masks covering their faces to ensure anonymity and luxurious wigs and headdresses.
Signature Events
The most important event during Corfu’s Carnival is undoubtedly the Great Parade. This occurs in Liston and Spianada Square, where locals wear elaborate costumes.
The event is accompanied by local music, and everyone joins the celebrations dancing in the street. However, there is a unique tradition typical of Corfu’s Carnival. The parade ends with the burning of King Carnival in an act of collective purification.
This is because this character is believed to carry all the sins of the locals and must, therefore, be eliminated. So make sure to stay till the very end of the parade to see the huge bonfire.
Culinary Delights
Of course, there’s no celebration in Greece without its typical food. Corfu’s Carnival is renowned for a variety of dishes you should absolutely try if you decide to visit during this period of the year.
Loukoumades, in particular, are synonymous with Carnival. These consist of small balls of dough deep-fried and served with an abundant amount of honey. They represent the abundance before Lent.
Other dishes often consumed during this period include:
- Tyropita: a local pastry filled with egg and cheese mixed with layers of filo dough dipped in butter.
- Spanakopita: Similar to Tyropita, this pastry consists of filo dough filled with spinach and feta cheese.
- Kreatopita: Again, another pastry made with filo dough filled with minced meat.
Of course, you will also find an abundance of fish, always popular on the island, local wine, and ouzo, an anise-flavoured liqueur popular in Greece.
Tourist Experience and Tips
You are now almost ready to celebrate your first Corfu Carnival. Here are a few final tips to level up your experience.
Consider where to stay
Corfu Carnival is celebrated not only in the town’s capital but also in small villages. Some of these still have unique traditions. For instance, in Argirades, you will be able to witness the Vlachs tradition.
Vlachs are considered the lords of Carnival and lead the parade with their ancient dance. These two characters hold the first spring flowers in their hands and force all visitors to smell their sweet scent. So, if you’re still considering where to stay in Corfu, make sure you take this into account.
Visiting Corfu During Carnival
Participating in the Corfu Carnival is a unique experience, everyone should try it at least once. However, visiting this island during this period of the year is not always a good choice. This is because most luxury villas in Corfu, hotels, and restaurants tend to be close. Unfortunately, you will have access to way fewer options during your holiday; however, you will definitely get a more authentic experience.
Dress Up!
Remember that this is not a typical Carnival, so dressing your son as a fancy Pokemon may not be the best idea. If you want to blend in, try to opt for ancient costumes, such as a prince, princess, or jester outfit. Popular characters from Venice, such as Arlecchino and Pulcinella, are always a good option when in doubt.