Carnival Dance Show on Tsiknopempti / Video

Dance, music, and barbecues on Smoked Thursday in Heraklion

 Every year, in early spring, the Greeks celebrate Apokries, the Carnival season that prepares them for Great Lent and is closely linked to the calendar date of the Resurrection feast. Apokries consists of three themed weeks of celebration: Prophoní (Προφωνή, "Preannouncement Week"), which serves as the run-up to Carnival; Kreatiní (Κρεατινή, "Meat Week"), the climax of Carnival; and Tiriní (Τυρινή, "Cheese Week"), which precedes the Easter Fast, followed by a holiday called Kathará Deftéra (Clean Monday).

 

A significant moment during "Meat Week" is Tsiknopempti, which translates to "Smelly Thursday," "Charred Thursday," or "Smoky Thursday." This is the day when large quantities of grilled or fried meat are consumed, and public parties are organized outdoors. The origin of this custom remains unclear, but it is speculated to stem from Bacchic feasts celebrated by ancient Greeks and Romans, which have since intertwined with Christian rituals. Today, it is integrated into various forms of culture among the Balkan Christian peoples.

 

Tsiknopempti is one of the busiest days for butchers in Greece, and there is a palpable excitement in Greek households and traditional restaurants as preparations for favorite dishes—such as pork, lamb, beef, goat, and other meats—take place. With only 11 days remaining until the year’s longest and most austere fast begins, Greeks celebrate this day abundantly, often indulging in culinary excesses.

 

In Crete, enticing aromas rise from clouds of smoke above courtyards, streets, villages, and towns, accompanied by music and merriment. On the evening of Tsiknopempti, city dwellers and visiting tourists gather in the old center to enjoy performances by young professionals, amateur artists, and dance school students, with the support of local officials.

 

We are excited to share our video footage from the Tsiknopempti party in Heraklion!