IT seems only a matter of weeks since the last celebration, but today was the start of Apokaries (Carnival) time in Greece, and of course there was a celebration with food and, wine and dancing - but at 10.00am!
Our senior citizens organisation (KAPI) informed us of the event in their headquarters in Hersonissoss, and off we went, not really knowing what to expect. On arrival we could smell the souvlaki (meat on wooden sticks) being cooked, and there was enough for all and a few more. Salad, bread and wine followed by cakes, and then the music and dancing started.
It seemed to us that anybody passing could join in, which they did and it was another example of socialising and hospitality, as friends re-united. Now there are celebrations and festivities throughout the country. Apokaries is three weeks before Lent, and on the first day of Lent their is Clean Monday (Kathari Deftera) Hopefully there will be further celebrations in the village, which was not help for financial reasons last year, if it is still not happening we shall go down the coast a short ride to Sissi, which always has the event.
On this date families gather at the beach to fly kites and prepare for the forthcoming Easter period.
We have also been signed up for a day-trip next week to an area called Apladiana towards the eastern side of the island. Just to make sure there is food included in our trip - oh and some music!!
