Limassol’s carnival, the city’s biggest cultural event with a history spanning over 100 years, returns from 12 to 22 February with satirical floats, traditional pellomaska masks and cantadores spreading festivities across neighbourhoods.
Mayor Yiannis Armeftis said the 11 days invite residents and visitors to join celebrations filled with creativity and Limassol spirit, with the city wearing its festive clothes for the occasion.
This year’s carnival appears more dynamic, renewed and enriched, with events upgraded whilst maintaining and strengthening authentic and historic elements including satirical floats, pellomaska traditional masks, handmade costumes and large dances, according to Armeftis.
The carnival spirit will spread across the city with activities and cantadores in neighbourhoods including Agia Fyla, Agios Nikolaos and Mesa Geitonia, bringing the carnival closer to every citizen.
Officials presented the programme on Wednesday at the Panos Solomonides Municipal Cultural Centre, where the Ariones cantadores group welcomed visitors with traditional songs. The presentation introduced sponsors and unveiled the new Carnival Queen, Amaryllis Kyriakou, alongside Greek lyrics for “Life is a Carnival” by Marija Savina, a song dedicated to the Limassol event.
Kyriakou has been an integral part of the carnival since 1985, when she first participated as companion to the Carnival King alongside the late Loula Sousmith. Since 2005 she has participated actively in the Grand Carnival Parade with her own creative groups, adding her unique colour, passion and creativity each year.
Her selection as queen reflects her longstanding contribution, continuous dedication and inexhaustible talent in carnival art and creation, the municipality said.
He also thanked the municipal council, cultural committee, municipal cultural services and all who worked with dedication to prepare this year’s carnival, as well as the media for their longstanding support.
More information is available on the Limassol Municipality website.
Read more:
