Eratyra Bouboussaria Carnival

On January 2nd each year, a big Carnival Festivity, locally called "Bouboussaria", takes place in Eratyra. School-children of all grades, together with the rest of the inhabitants, participate in a big parade, dressed up in any way they like, usually satirizing one of the events of the last year, personalities or social issues. The idea on which each group will base its performance is a top secret issue. There follows a big open-air dance until late in the afternoon and, in the end, the most successful group is awarded a prize.
(Photos: Michael Tziotis)

Eratyra: Before the Parade. Local musicians are already "heating up" the atmosphere. The sound of the brass instruments is beyond any description - had there been brass instruments in antiquity, then Dionyssus would love to dance at their music!	Eratyra: Start of the Parade. First group of participants in costumes just visible
Eratyra: Start of the Parade. The musicians lead the way. Behind them the long line of participants is beginning to unwind.	Eratyra: Dance in the Upper Square After a ten minute uphill march, the parade reaches the Upper Square. There, the various groups contest against one another not only on the costumes or the idea the maskerade is based on but, also, for their dancing ability.
Eratyra: Dance in the Upper Square The Smurfs are dancing!	Eratyra: Dance in the Upper Square During the usually circular dances, the musicians occupy the free space in the center. This creates the need for a different group of musicians for each group of contestants. The best musicians are awarded as well!
Eratyra: Dance in the Upper Square The sweetest Pirates you could ever meet!