'Fanos'' Carnival Kozani

Fanos or Bonfire, is an ancient custom of Kozani. A singular ceremony that includes singing, dancing, eating and drinking around the "altar" of a purifying fire; all these in a festive atmosphere full of Dionysiac and phallic elements. Fanos succeeded to survive over time, by changing its sheath and keeping the essence since the old passed the torch to the young.

It is a living custom open to all locals and visitors. People revel around the fire, drink, dance and sing. Visitors can listen to historical, love, satirical and other kinds of songs in the local idiom.

Tradition and recording still go on.
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Photos and text by Athanasia (Soula)  Palentza