Tsiknopempti: A Feast of Flames and Flavor

A Unique Blend Of Cultural Heritage And Culinary Delight 

 Every spring, in Crete, just like in the rest of Greece, a centuries-old tradition comes to life on a day filled with the scent of smoke and the sizzle of grilling meat. This is Tsiknopempti, a festival that marks the beginning of the Greek Orthodox fasting period before Easter.  

 ”Tsiknopempti”, also known as ”Charred Thursday” or ”Smoky Thursday”, is an integral part of the Greek Carnival season called Apokries, specifically falling on the second-to-last Thursday before Lent. This festive day revolves around one central theme: the indulgence in copious amounts of grilled and roasted meats. It's a carnivore's paradise, a prelude to the fasting period that will begin in 11 days, on Clean Monday.

 On Tsiknopempti, the air is thick with the tantalizing aroma of sizzling meat. Greeks gather outdoors for massive feasts, firing up grills and barbecues. Lamb chops, souvlaki, and kebabs dance over open flames, their fragrant smoke enveloping the streets. Locals and tourists revel in this carnivorous celebration, sharing laughter, stories, and plates piled high with succulent meats.

The tradition of Tsiknopempti originates from ancient Greek customs and the Christian Orthodox religion. In ancient times, feasts were prepared to celebrate spring's arrival and wish for a fertile season. This tradition of feasting and enjoying meat dishes has endured through the ages and has become intertwined with the Christian Orthodox tradition.

 Why Thursday? In Greek Orthodox tradition, fasting occurs on Wednesdays and Fridays. Thus, Thursday becomes the ideal day for Tsiknopempti—a last hurrah before the stringent Lenten period. The festivities spill over to the following Sunday, a smaller-scale encore, marking the final day when meat can be savored before the Great Lent begins.

 If you visit Crete during this festive season, be sure to immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere! Join the locals at bustling tavernas, sip on retsina wine, and savor the smoky goodness of grilled meats. Experience the spirit of Tsiknopempti—the day when flames leap, friendships blossom, and taste buds dance to the rhythm of tradition!

 

If you plan to stay the night in Heraklion, enjoy a spirited dance show with the locals while the flames of the grills on the terraces flicker.

Let the feast begin!