The Lemesos (Limassol) Carnival is an important institution; a tradition for the Limassolians, which remains alive and will survive throughout times. It is a festivity so much expected desperately by everybody, thousands of children, younger and adults from all the free parts of Cyprus. Even the foreigners, who happen to be here during this period of the year or live permanently on the island, are passionate to expect it.
The Municipality is the official vehicle and organizer of a series of festive Carnival events. These events start on the Shrove Thursday with the Carnival King entering the town in a festive atmosphere, then the children’s parade, the various Serenaders’ shows and finally the Grand Carnival Parade which takes place on the last Sunday of the Carnival festivities.
Over the last couple of years, the main aim is the biggest possible participation of the Limassolians in these festivities. A second objective is to bring back elements, which are related to the identity of the traditional Carnival as the Limassolians remember it and have experienced it in the past.
In a few words, the Serenaders’ shows take place at the central key points of the town like the Heroon Square, the Medieval Castle Square, the Market Square, the Irenes Street Park etc. The children’s parade takes place at the city centre, along the coastal street in front of the knoll, so that the public may participate directly as easy as possible. The traditional Tuesday dance is organized on the Medieval Castle Square and many people in fancy dresses participate to enjoy a special razzle-dazzle.
Finally, special consideration has been given to the decoration of the town. All the places where festivities are planned as well as the central key points of the town are decorated in an as ingenious way as possible.
