Opening Ceremony
Arrive early in costume for best view; lively music and speeches
~18:30
Corfu Carnival
Κερκυραϊκή Αποκριά
Corfu, Greece
Feb 21 - Mar 14, 2027Expected
Each year before Lent, the island of Corfu throws one of Greece's most elegant and playful carnivals, a tradition shaped by four centuries of Venetian rule. Masked balls, satirical floats, and parades fill the old town, ending in a grand procession through streets that still feel half-Italian.
Key moments
Day 1 · Feb 21
Τσικνοπέμπτη - 'Petegoleftsa' Performance
Best viewed from Old Town streets; arrive early to find a spot
~21:00
Day 2 · Feb 22
Grand Parade
Pick a spot along the route by 13:30; great photo opportunities, expect confetti and dancing
~14:00 - 17:00
Where it happens
Πλατεία Ἁγίου Δημητρίου (San Giacomo Square)
Corfu, Greece
Open in MapsHow to show up well
Respect local boundaries
Participate respectfully; avoid mocking sacred symbols; follow local guidance.
Practical notes
Crowds & timing
Very crowded at main parades and squares, more space in peripheral areas
Weather
Mild winter climate; occasional rain possible
Transport
Urban buses (KTEL) serve the Old Town (e.g., Bus 9), local taxis
Tickets
Free events are available.
Safety & access
Generally safe; police keep order. Watch valuables in crowds.
Reviewed mediaMAJOR COMMUNITY & FOLK LIFE
Corfu Carnival
Κερκυραϊκή Αποκριά
Corfu, Greece
Each year before Lent, the island of Corfu throws one of Greece's most elegant and playful carnivals, a tradition shaped by four centuries of Venetian rule. Masked balls, satirical floats, and parades fill the old town, ending in a grand procession through streets that still feel half-Italian.
AnchorCultural anchor
Feb 21 - Mar 14, 2027Expected dates
Verified this year
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The story behind it
The Corfu Carnival has roots in the island's Venetian inheritance, evolving over four centuries. During Venetian rule, Corfiots adopted opulent masked balls and processions. Today, the carnival remains a symbol of Corfu’s cosmopolitan culture, combining local folklore clubs, the historic philharmonic bands, and community satire performances. It is an event of communal bonding and creative expression, reflecting Corfu’s identi...
Key moments to know
Day 1Feb 212 moments
Day 1Feb 21~18:30Expected
Opening Ceremony
Arrive early in costume for best view; lively music and speeches
Day 1Feb 21~21:00Expected
Τσικνοπέμπτη - 'Petegoleftsa' Performance
Best viewed from Old Town streets; arrive early to find a spot
Day 2Feb 22
Day 2Feb 22~14:00 - 17:00Expected
Grand Parade
Pick a spot along the route by 13:30; great photo opportunities, expect confetti and dancing
Day 23Mar 15
Day 23Mar 15~21:00Expected
Burning of the Carnival ('Boumba')
Join crowds on harborfront; warm fireworks involved, keep distance from firework displays
How to show up well
first-timer tips
Respect local boundaries
Participate respectfully; avoid mocking sacred symbols; follow local guidance.
Essentials at a glance
Date window
Feb 21 - Mar 14, 2027
Estimated
City / Area
Corfu
Corfu
Access
Ioannis Kapodistrias Airport (CFU) · 2.5 km from festival
Cost
Free entry
Budget: €50-80, Mid: €100-150, Comfort: €200+
Atmosphere
Festive and exuberant, building up to major parades and performance...
Very crowded at main parades and squares, more space in p...
Good for
Families, culture enthusiasts
Very High visitor welcome
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