Dance with the Cretans: Guide to the Rethymno Carnival in Crete

Imagine an event with thousands of dressed-up locals and tourists dancing on the streets, and in the middle of it all, you and your friends with your favorite costumes. We are describing to you, my friend, the grand finale of the Rethymno carnival, a 40-day period of festivities and fun. Want to know more? Here’s everything about the exhilarating Carnival of Rethymno.

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Everything About Rethymno Carnival

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Understanding the Greek Carnival

I’m not sure if even real Greeks know the meaning and origins of Carnival. Some say it concerns the Orthodox Easter, and others insist it’s all about pagan traditions. The truth is that it’s somewhere in the middle – or skewed on one side if you prefer.

The Greek and Cretan Carnival is a local tradition that dates back to Ancient Greece. Some centuries ago, our Greek ancestors started celebrating the Dionysian festivities to pay their honors to the local god of wine. That’s where it all began.

The only relation the Greek Carnival has with Christianity is that it marks the beginning of a 40-day fast in preparation for the Orthodox Easter. That’s why the Greek word for Carnival, Apokries, means “Abstaining From Meat.”

The Historical Significance of the Rethymno Carnival

The origins of the Rethymno Carnival date to the 16th century, when Venetian overlords organized masked celebrations. However, as we know it today, the modern version of the Carnival first happened in 1914. 

Since then, it has become one of Crete and Greece’s largest and most popular cultural events. Although it is a series of month-long celebrations, the highlight is its last Sunday, the day before Clean Monday. 

On this memorable day, locals and Cretans around the island flock to Rethymno to participate in the second biggest carnival celebration in Greece.

Some Cretans travel hours to get here, even passing the chance to partake in the local Carnival parades and festivities. The Rethymno Carnival is grand! 

The Costumes in the Rethymno Carnival

One of the most striking aspects of the Rethymno Carnival is the use of unique masks and costumes. Participants take great pride in creating and polishing their colorful and creative attires. To give you an idea, think about anything from traditional Cretan outfits to whimsical and fantastical characters.

If you attend a parade team, you’ll have to wear a specific outfit or follow a particular theme so that the judges can decide the winning team. For example, the masquerader’s costumes in Rethymno have either a humoristic “sense” or a Venetian “aroma.” 

Yet, everyone is expected to dress up as they wish; there are no restrictions. The limits are your imagination. However, if you decide to attend the celebrations at the last minute, feel free to join even without a costume. 

Some people don’t dress up, but that’s okay. Everyone’s imagination is not the same. You can test yours even at the venue since several stores have masks and costumes you can purchase on the spot. 

The Glentia, aka Street Parties

Another critical element of the Carnival is the “Glenti,” a series of lively street parties throughout the city. These parties almost always have live music, traditional food and drink, and plenty of dancing. The result? An atmosphere full of festivity and energy.

The biggest Glenti of them is the last Sunday when nearly 15,000 participants transform the old town into a center of festivity and joy. Rethymno is cute enough on its merit, but when you add in the picture thousands of Greek dancing from 3 pm to after midnight, then you have something else.

I would describe the event as a grand festival with tens of DJs playing different but always loud music, comparable to a music festival, where instead of walking from one makeshift tent to another, you follow the cobblestone alleys of an old town to get from one bar to another.

Another plus you might find interesting is its cost. The local authorities spend thousands, if not more, in preparation for the event. Despite that, you get full access to the parade and festivities at zero dollars. Yes, it’s free and fabulous. 

The only question is whether you’ll be able to get a plane ticket to one of Crete’s most charming towns.

Rethymno Carnival Highlights

The city’s medieval and Venetian charm provides a unique backdrop for dancing until your legs can no longer. That’s the ultimate highlight. However, there are plenty more you’ll love.

The Gigantic Grand Parade

This is the main event of Carnival, featuring several floats, costumes, and music from around the world.

The Triumphant Treasure Hunt

An interactive event where participants solve clues to find a hidden treasure.

The Magnificent Masquerade Ball

A formal event where attendees wear elaborate masks and costumes and dance the night away.

The Cheerful Children’s Parade

This is a special event for young children, with their floats, costumes, and music. It takes place the night before the Grand Parade.

The Blazing Burning of the King

This is a symbolic event that marks the end of the festival. A large fake body of the Carnival King is set on fire.

Dates of the Rethymno Carnival 

Every year, the Carnival falls on different days, although it almost always covers the months of February and March. 

Rethymno Carnival lasts four weeks, starting with a spectacular opening ceremony and finishing on the Sunday before Clean Monday with the Grand Parade of Rethymno Carnival teams. 

For more than two months, all over the city, companies and artistic teams have worked together to accomplish the spectacular events that have made Rethymno proud.

Tips for your visit to the Rethymnon Carnival

Staying in Rethymno

Stay Saturday and Sunday nights in Rethymno’s old town. It’s the best way to experience the festivities without worrying about parking. Head to this post to find accommodation in Rethymnon.

Rethymno on Sunday

If you come by car on Sunday for the parade, get in Rethymno as early as possible. The police block road access to the city for the parade, and you must park outside the city. In that case, the municipality offers free shuttle buses to and from the city center.

Carnival Costumes

Pick a comfortable costume to wear in heat or cold; you’ll never know what the Rethymno weather will be like in February or March.

Street Food in Rethymno

Grab dinner on the go, or you may miss the 7 pm fireworks show in front of the port while you wait 40 minutes for your food to be ready. (Speaking from experience!) Also, you’ll be dancing all night, so it’s best to eat light.

Drinking in Rethymno

Show up hydrated; there’ll be lots of walking and dancing, and you won’t want to miss a beat!

Rethymno Raki

Try the local raki from any store – even ice cream stores sell alcohol on this unique day. We got ours from a healthy fresh juice store if that says something to you

Rethymno Meronas

Finally, since you’re visiting Rethymno during Carnival, don’t miss Meronas, Melidoni, or Gerani. These villages are known for folk street parties with many traditional ‘happenings.’ Some events take place on Clean Monday, the night after the Grand Parade, so that it can be a relaxing finale to your holidays!

The Rethymno Carnival is a true cultural, tradition, and celebration spectacle. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this event will surely provide you with unforgettable memories. So why wait? Start planning your visit to the Rethymno Carnival today!

Read more about Rethymnon

• Everything About the Former Mosques in Rethymnon
• 5 Days in Rethymnon, Crete: The Ultimate 5-Day Itinerary!
• 52 Stunning Things to Do in Rethymnon (Region) for a Fantastic Vacation in Crete!
• Where to Have the Best Breakfast in Rethymnon

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