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Apokrias Carnival in Crete is celebrated to appease Dionysos, the God of Feast and Wine. Traditionally it is supposed to prepare the people for the 40 day fast or Lent, during which there is are no parties, weddings or celebrations of any kind. The carnival is held as a form of last time of celebration before Lent begins, when people are not allowed to have meat or drink wine. It is held over a period of three weeks filled with fun and festivities, more to compensate for the abstinence to be held during the 40 day fast.

Carnivals were held during ancient times to help earth become fertile and grow a good harvest. People performed all sorts of gimmicks in the form of dances and disguises to ward of the evil spirits, likely to harm the earths fertility. Later the carnival took a different shape and was combined with the Christian religion. Since then it is organized during early Spring, as Dionysus symbolizes rebirth of life. Today, it is still held around the same period. However, the dates depend on the feast of Easter.

Well, the whole period is that of fun, where people dress up in different colorful costumes. The three weeks comprise of a procession of people in fancy dresses parading down the streets of Crete. Some also create floats using a theme of their choice and the whole thing is quite a spectacle to watch. Why not get your flights to Crete and join in on the fun. The entire duration of carnival is packed with parties, parades and celebrations.

The three weeks are also characterized by three different feasts for each week. The first week, called as feast of Protofoni, begins with the reading of the Triodeon, which is the book of Three Holy Sacraments. This is read daily in the churches during the first week. At the end of the week, on Sunday the feast of Protofoni ends, announcing the beginning of the carnival.

The second week consists of the feast of Kreatini, also called as the meat week. Traditionally, this is the last time people are allowed to eat meat before the 40 day fast begins. The Thursday falling in this week is called as Burnt Thursday or Tsikno Pempti. On this day, meat is grilled or burnt throughout Crete, during which people are seen wearing masks combined with a fancy dress.

The third week is known as the Tirini, also called as the Cheese Week. As the name suggests, people only eat dairy products such as eggs, cheese and so on, and meat is completely banned till the fats gets over. The whole atmosphere during the carnival is full of merriment. The event is hugely enjoyed by both locals and visitors alike.