The start of the largest carnival of Greece was declared by Patras Mayor Costas Peletidis on Saturday. He addressed the people of Greece that flocked to the Georgiou Street despite the low temperatures.

“The best carnival in Greece has started,” he said. “The drums of peace sound tonight from Patras for the entire world. If my the half of my heart is here, in this square, the other half is in the Aegean, there where children die every day because of the imperialists. Young people do not compromise and claim what belongs to you!” He then invited everyone to celebrate together with joy so as to overcome difficulties in an atmosphere of carnival revelry and sheer fun.

The opening ceremony brought festive music from Africa, Brazil, Mexico, Cuba and Italy and concluded with the group of percussion instruments of Athens 2004 Olympic Games and fireworks over the city’s sky.

CLICK HERE for the full carnival program (in English)