Corfu Carnival 2026: Your Essential Guide to the Festivities
The highly anticipated Corfu Carnival (Apokries) 2026 is just around the corner, with a packed schedule of events designed to bring joy and tradition to the island. From February 1st to February 22nd, various locations across Corfu will host parades, musical performances, traditional dances, and satirical shows. This comprehensive guide provides all the practical information you need to navigate and enjoy the carnival.
Key Dates and Event Highlights:
The carnival officially begins on Sunday, February 1st, with an opening ceremony at M. Theotoki Square and the Historic Town Hall at 18:30. The event will feature performances by ‘Dia tis Afis’, the Lyceum of Hellenic Women, the Corfiot Mascarata, and the Corfu Conservatory.
Weekly Event Schedule:
- Sunday, February 1st:
- 18:30: Opening of the Corfiot Carnival at M. Theotoki Square / Historic Town Hall.
- Sunday, February 8th:
- 11:30: ‘Peratzada’ (stroll) by ‘Dia tis Afis’ through the Historic Center.
- Tuesday, February 10th:
- 19:00: Corfiot Dance Group presents Carnival songs and dances from across Greece at the Historic Town Hall.
- Thursday, February 12th (Tsiknopempti – Smelly Thursday):
- 19:00: ‘Tsiknisma with songs and dances’ at Lemonia Square.
- Friday, February 13th:
- 17:00: ‘The Venetians of ‘Oti Agapo” parade through central city points (pedestrian street, G. Theotoki, Annunziata, Eugenios Voulgareos, Liston, Saint Spyridon Square, Liston Palaces) with period costumes, accompanied by drummers and a float.
- 17:00: Presentation of the event ‘Harlequin meets the Venetians of ‘Oti Agapo” at Saint Spyridon Square.
- 18:30: Dance performance by the Lyceum of Hellenic Women at Annunziata Square, featuring ‘songs with cheer, songs for cheer’.
- 20:00: ‘Wine Court’ satirical carnival group performance by the Corfu Satirical Carnival Group at the Historic Town Hall.
- Saturday, February 14th:
- 11:30: ‘Peratzada’ by ‘Dia tis Afis’ through the Historic Center.
- 12:00 – 14:00: Dances and songs with carnival delicacies from various parts of Greece at Annunziata Square, featuring the Dance Section of the Gouvia Beautification and Cultural Association.
- 18:00: ‘Peratzada’ by ‘Dia tis Afis’ through the Historic Center.
- 14:00 (Start) – 19:00 (End): ’19th Treasure Hunt’ by Corfiot Mascarata, starting at Kofineta and ending at Town Hall Square.
- Sunday, February 15th:
- 11:30: ‘Peratzada’ by ‘Dia tis Afis’ in period costumes through the Historic Center (Eugenios Voulgareos, Annunziata, Liston, Palaces).
- 12:00: ‘Peratzada’ by the Lyceum of Hellenic Women of Corfu in period costumes through the Historic Center (Eugenios Voulgareos, Annunziata, Liston, Palaces).
- 12:30: ‘Peratzada’ by ‘Oti Agapo’ through the Historic Center.
- 15:00: Grand Carnival Parade, starting at Mitropolitou Methodiou and ending at Kofineta.
- 19:00: Lyrical Evening at the Historic Town Hall.
- Monday, February 16th:
- 19:00: Lyrical Evening at the Historic Town Hall.
- Thursday, February 19th:
- 20:00: ‘Petegoletsa’ at Saint Spyridon Square.
- Friday, February 20th:
- 12:30: ‘Peratzada’ by ‘Oti Agapo’ through the Historic Center.
- 19:00: Lyrical Evening at the Historic Town Hall.
- 20:00: Concert by F.E. MANTZAROS with the participation of the Music School of Thessaloniki and ‘Dia tis Afis’ at the Municipal Theater.
- Saturday, February 21st:
- 11:30 & 18:00: ‘Peratzada’ by ‘Dia tis Afis’ in period costumes through the Historic Center.
- 12:00: Traditional Dances and Carnival Events by the Lyceum of Hellenic Women at Annunziata, titled ‘Welcome Carnival with crazy dances, dressing up adults and children’.
- 15:00: Children’s Carnival Dance ‘Baldafan’ at the Gymnastic Association Hall.
- 19:00: Lyrical Evening at the Historic Town Hall.
- Sunday, February 22nd:
- 11:30: ‘Peratzada’ by ‘Dia tis Afis’ in period costumes through the Historic Center (Eugenios Voulgareos, Annunziata, Liston, Palaces).
- 11:45: ‘The wonderful urban carnival of Corfu’ by the Lyceum of Hellenic Women, a parade with period costumes and dances throughout the city, accompanied by drummers of the Old Philharmonic of Corfu.
- 11:30: ‘Peratzada’ by Corfiot Mascarata through the Historic Center (Eugenios Voulgareos, Annunziata, Liston, Palaces).
- 15:00: Grand Carnival Parade, starting at Mitropolitou Methodiou and ending at Kofineta – Vikt. Dousmani.
- 19:00: Reading of the Will.
Getting Around and What to Expect:
Many events take place in the Historic Center of Corfu Town, including Eugenios Voulgareos, Annunziata Square, Liston, and Saint Spyridon Square. These areas will be bustling with activity, so expect road closures and increased pedestrian traffic. Public transportation may be affected, so planning your routes in advance is advisable.
Transportation Tips:
- Walking: The Historic Center is best explored on foot. Wear comfortable shoes as you’ll be doing a lot of walking.
- Public Transport: Check local bus schedules for any changes or detours during carnival events.
- Parking: Parking in the city center will be limited. Consider using parking facilities further out and walking or taking a short taxi ride.
What to Bring:
- Comfortable Shoes: For walking and dancing.
- Camera: To capture the colorful costumes and vibrant atmosphere.
- Cash: While many places accept cards, having some cash on hand for street vendors and smaller establishments is always useful.
- Warm Clothing: February in Corfu can be cool, especially in the evenings. Dress in layers.
Family-Friendly Events:
The carnival offers numerous activities for children, including the Children’s Carnival Dance ‘Baldafan’ on February 21st. The grand parades on February 15th and 22nd are also suitable for all ages, featuring colorful floats and costumed participants.
Important Notes:
- Event Changes: Schedules may be subject to change due to weather conditions or unforeseen circumstances. It is advisable to check local announcements or the official Corfu Municipality website for the latest updates.
- Crowds: Expect large crowds, especially during the main parades and popular evening events.
- Respect Local Traditions: Immerse yourself in the local culture and enjoy the unique traditions of the Corfiot Carnival.
Enjoy the vibrant and festive atmosphere of the Corfu Carnival 2026!
Source: https://www.startmediacorfu.gr/kerkyraiki-apokria-2026-to-programma-ton-ekdiloseon/
