Limassol is in the spotlight today as the city celebrates Tsiknopempti.
With the aid of clear weather, the stage has been set for a day of meat grilling from dawn.
The festivities kicked off early in Limassol, particularly around the premises of the Hellenic Bank on Gladstonos Street, where a party was organised.
Adding to the vibrant atmosphere, the “Kantadoroi Lemesou” music group made their appearance, alongside carnival royalty from previous years.
Grill houses are experiencing a surge in demand, with their phones ringing off the hook.
Proprietors are working out the logistics for the day to ensure that all patrons leave satisfied.
The same festive atmosphere has spread to schools, where Parent Associations have taken on the task of grilling for the children.
Tsiknopempti, literally Smokey or Smelly Thursday, “because of the smell of the grilled meat in the air,” is part of the traditional celebrations for Carnival season in Greece and Cyprus.
Tsiknopempti is the Thursday of the second week of Apokria during which large amounts of meat are traditionally consumed before the arrival of Lent, the fasting season leading up to Easter.
In the Greek Orthodox tradition, fasting on Wednesday and Friday is important, therefore Thursday is the best day for Tsiknopempti.
Tsiknopempti is celebrated 11 days before Green Monday. Similar celebrations known as Fat Thursday are held in other countries.
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