Festive Greece

A calendar of festivals and other observances in Greece throughout the year, "Festive Greece" is the only comprehensive and detailed guide in print in English to the wealth of tradition accessible to the traveler in Greece. Included in 'Festive Greece' are in-depth studies of many of the more exotic manifestations of popular culture: such as the mysterious figures dressed in animal skins and sheep bells which roam the streets of many of the towns and villages of Northern Greece during the winter and spring carnival seasons; the many variations on the religious and popular ceremonies of Holy Week and Easter; the fire-walking Anastenarides, probably remnants of the ancient groups dedicated to the cult of Dionysos; the bull-sacrifices of Lesbos; the annual appearance in church of the Virgin's serpents in Kefalonia; and the annual services in honor of the Cross, held in commemoration of a vision received during the German occupation, in Metsovo. From proud military parades commemorating the trials and victories of the modern state, to children's spring carol festivities which have survived almost unchanged from ancient times, this beautifully illustrated guide will provide you with a key to a more eventful stay in the country and a better appreciation of its long