The Naxos Carnival comes alive once again this year through events deeply rooted in folk tradition, featuring costumes, satirical reenactments, music, dance, and authentic island hospitality in every corner of Naxos, from the mountain villages to Chora.
A special place in the program is held by the traditional village customs, such as the Kordelatoi, the Foustanellades, and the Koudounatoi, along with masquerades and local festivities that pass the Carnival spirit from one generation to the next.
On Saturday, February 21, the established Lampadifories (Torchlight Procession) take center stage—a ritual nighttime parade that transforms the setting into an atmosphere of mysticism and light.
The celebrations will culminate on Sunday, February 22, with the Dionysian Carnival of Naxos, where carnival groups, floats, music, and satirical performances will fill the seafront of Chora with color, rhythm, and a truly Dionysian spirit.
The Naxos Carnival is a vibrant cultural experience that unites the community, preserves tradition, and offers visitors an authentic glimpse into local life and creativity. The Municipality of Naxos and Small Cyclades invites residents and visitors alike to actively participate in the events and become part of a celebration that highlights the island’s history, solidarity, and creative spirit.
Detailed Three-Day Program
Saturday 21/2
21:00 | Seafront
Lampadifories (Meeting & preparation point: Agios Minas & former Ursuline School – Kastro, from 19:00)
Sunday 22/2
12:00 | Agios Arsenios
Kordelatoi in Agersani
(Organized by: Cultural & Educational Association of the Youth of Tripodes and the Cultural & Ecological Association of Agios Arsenios)
12:30 | Glinado
Kordelatoi in Glinado
(Organized by: Cultural Club of Glinado, Naxos)
13:30 | Vivlos
Kordelatoi in Tripodes
(Organized by: Cultural & Educational Association of the Youth of Tripodes and the Cultural & Ecological Association of Agios Arsenios)
14:00 | Chora Seafront
Carnival Parade
16:00 | Apeiranthos
Koudounatoi in Apeiranthos
(Organized by: Apeiranthos Cultural Association “Ta Fanaria”)
Monday 23/2
11:00 | Filoti
Koulouma in Filoti: Featuring Koudounatoi, mock bull performances (moskaries), a traditional wedding reenactment, and Lenten delicacies.
(Organized by: Cultural Association of Filoti, Parents & Guardians Association of the Primary School, and Women’s Association of Filoti)
13:00 | Koronos
Clean Monday in Koronos
(Organized by: Beautification & Cultural Association of Koronos)
14:00 | Komiaki
“Brovalete sta Domata”: Masqueraders, tsabouna and drum music, Lenten delicacies, and Komiaki wine at Rodina Square.
(Organized by: Women’s Association of Komiaki and the Spiritual Center of Koronida)
