Masquerade Party from Manasis

Unique and exclusive to MANASIS, these very rare costumes are worn only during the traditional seasons known as “DODEKAIMERO”- the twelve days from Christmas (25th December), to the eve of the Epiphany (5th January), and during “APOKRIES”- celebrated over the weeks preceding LENT- the 40-day period of strict fasting in preparation for PASCHA- Greek Orthodox Easter.

The wearing of animal skins, masks and bells is one of the oldest known folk traditions still in existence, pre-dating Christianity and shared right throughout Europe, Asia and the Middle East.

Although the ritual varies from village to village, country to country, the essence of the “Koudounoforoi”, “rougatsia”, “rougatsaria”, “kalikantzaroi”, “maskarades” and “karnavali” remains the same.

The belief is that the ringing of bells wards off evil spirits from the earth, provides fertile ground for crops to grow (as meat cannot be eaten for the following 40 days), and masks and swords protect the wearers from being possessed!

See, HEAR, get up-close and experience these historic moments, at various upcoming events! With an entourage of hundreds, and wearing a total of over 500+ authentic and traditional-style bells, no matter where you are, you’ll hear them coming!!!