The pro pandemic The island is expected to achieve the following visitor numbers: Skyros on the occasion of her three-day holiday Carnival, according to local officials, who point to the island’s emergence as one of the most popular destinations.
In fact, they are banking on the fact that, unlike other destinations, the traditional Skyrian Carnival does not feature large, organized carnival events but rather individual cultural events based on customs and the traditions on the island, and there are no signs of overcrowding.
«We are optimistic that, after last year’s hiatus due to travel restrictions, our island will once again attract both long-time and new visitors to enjoy the unique experience of the Skyros Carnival. Already, reservations at accommodations on our island have increased significantly, and the Municipality of Skyros, our business owners, and all residents are looking forward to welcoming and safely hosting our visitors,» the mayor of Skyros told the Athens-Macedonian News Agency (ANA-MPA), Nikos Mavrikos.
A key feature of the Skirian Carnival is the “The Custom of the Old Man and the Young Girl”, which has Dionysian origin and is associated with its ancient festivals fertility and the arrival of spring. Every year, the custom begins with the start of the Tridion and it takes place every weekend for about a month, culminating in the last three days of Carnival, when the alleys of the town of Skyros echo with the sound of bells, while the island’s castle hosts the famous «Dance of the Elders.» On Clean Monday, the custom of the «Tratta» takes place, which draws directly on an Aristophanic custom of maritime life, featuring the recitation in verse of satirical verses about current events, and culminates in a mystical dance by all the island’s island, dressed in traditional local costumes, in the central square.
It should be noted that Skyros can be reached either by air or by ferry, with daily service provided by the «Achilles,» operated by the Skyros Shipping Company, from Kymi.
