The Patras Carnival (Patrino Karnivali) has proved a raging success with tens of thousands of people turning up for the grand event.
The carnival-goers poured in to celebrate the event, participating through parade floats, masqueraders, bands, dancers and more.
The costumes, floats, and cheer characterised the event which lasted more than five hours, with estimates suggesting over 50,000 (and maybe even 60,000) came to the event and flooded its main streets.
At the head of the parade were members of the municipal band, playing carnival tunes, together with members of the KEDIP – Patras Carnival, the advisory and judging committee, volunteers, cheerleaders, and representatives of the chocolate throwers’ associations.
This was followed by the procession of King Carnival, with the floats of the Municipality of Patras, which were crafted in the carnival workshop, adding an artistic and satirical dimension, while also conveying their own social and political messages.
On the flower-covered float with 30,000 carnations, the queen of the carnival, Mariza Floratou, set the tone for the celebration with her dancing.
The Carnival Academy’s float, along with representatives of historical crews and the retinue of “generals” and “ambassadors” of the Patras Carnival, added authentic carnival colour to the parade.
