The vibrant streets of Rethymno are once again pulsating with carnival energy as the city’s renowned celebration continues under the evocative theme “Come Into the Light,” marking its 111th year of cultural festivities. With the Rethymno carnival now in full swing and major events approaching, visitors and locals alike are preparing for the spectacular finale weekend.
Theme Context
“Come Into the Light” represents more than just a slogan – it embodies an escape from daily routine and an invitation to celebration. The theme connects deeply to Rethymno’s Renaissance spirit and over 100 years of carnival tradition, incorporating Venetian theater influences and Commedia dell’Arte elements that reflect the city’s rich cultural heritage.
Recent Highlights
The carnival’s initial events have already showcased the city’s festive spirit despite a brief weather-related postponement from February 9th to February 12th. The Carnival Run through the Old Town drew enthusiastic participation, while special children’s activities delighted younger participants. Last week’s Tsiknopempti celebrations on February 20th featured lively outdoor parties and theatrical performances that transformed the city center.
Immediate Upcoming Events
This week brings several must-see events for carnival enthusiasts. A compelling multimedia art exhibition by the Athens School of Fine Arts opened on February 24th, showcasing works inspired by the carnival theme. The Grand Carnival Ball scheduled for Saturday will feature theatrical sketches and team presentations, offering visitors a chance to experience the creativity and humor that define this celebration.
Final Weekend Schedule
The carnival reaches its spectacular conclusion with three days of non-stop festivities:
The Night Parade on March 1st will illuminate the city with dazzling floats and live music performances beginning at 8 PM along the coastal avenue. Earlier that day, the Children’s Parade will wind through the city center at 11 AM, culminating in a grand theatrical performance.
The highlight Grand Parade takes place on March 2nd at 2 PM, led by Mayor George Marinaki, featuring 26 elaborate floats and 30 carnival groups with approximately 12,000 participants. The celebration concludes with the Closing Ceremony at Agnostou Stratiotis Square at 6:30 PM.
The festivities extend into Clean Monday (March 3rd) with traditional celebrations in Gerani village, located 12km east of Rethymno. Visitors can enjoy traditional Lenten foods and witness the unique “Camel” folk tradition, marking the beginning of the Orthodox Lent period.
Scale and Participation
This year’s celebration has already drawn impressive crowds, with the final weekend expected to welcome nearly 100,000 visitors. Local businesses have embraced the carnival spirit by decorating their storefronts throughout the city, creating an immersive experience for all attendees.
Practical Information
The 2025 Rethymno carnival has gone 100% paper-free, with all event information accessible via QR codes posted throughout the city. Visitors should check the MoRE cultural calendar or the official website (rethymnocarnival.gr) for real-time updates and any weather-related schedule changes.
For those attending the Grand Parade, free parking is available at the harbor from 11 AM, though early arrival is strongly recommended. Public buses offer regular service to Gerani village for Clean Monday celebrations, with increased frequency on March 3rd.
Accommodation in central Rethymno is nearly at capacity, but options remain available in nearby villages with easy access to the carnival events. Local tavernas throughout the old town offer special carnival menus featuring traditional Cretan dishes and sweet treats unique to the celebration.
Historical Significance
While ranking as Greece’s third-largest carnival after Patras and Xanthi, the Rethymno Carnival holds the distinction of being Crete’s premier carnival celebration. Since its organization was taken over by the Municipality of Rethymno in 1993, it has evolved into one of Greece’s most significant cultural events, blending historical traditions with modern festivities.
The carnival continues through March 3rd, offering visitors and locals alike the opportunity to experience the unique blend of Cretan hospitality, cultural heritage, and carnival atmosphere that has made this celebration renowned throughout Greece.
Published on: February 25th, 2025
