Not just a simple carnival, but a living custom, deeply rooted in time and the people of the island.
The custom has its roots in ancient dionysian ceremonies, related to fertility and the rebirth of nature.

The Skyrian Carnival revolves around three emblematic figures: the Old Man, the Corella and the Frangos.

The Old Man is the central figure. He wears the black, woolly shepherd's cape, white trousers and a goatskin mask, while heavy herd bells that can weigh tens of kilos hang from his waist.
With a special, rhythmic pace, the bells ring deafeningly but melodiously, creating an almost ritualistic sound.
His costume is not a simple disguise, it is a family heirloom that is passed down from generation to generation.

Next to him dances Korela, dressed in the traditional Skyrian costume, holding a scarf and covering her face with a mask.

With her characteristic "Korelite" dance, she whirls around, bringing balance and light to the heavy presence of the Old Man.

The third figure, Frangos, in European attire and a bell around his waist, satirizes those who abandoned the traditional costume for "Frankish" ones.

Today, Frangos is the most comical and unconventional figure of the custom.

On Carnival weekends, the sounds of bells flood the streets of Chora.
The custom is not organized by any association, it is a spontaneous, mass participation of the Skyrians themselves who keep this pagan tradition alive.
The disguised people visit houses and shops for treats, while often, when two Old Men meet, an informal "bell ringing competition" follows.
On Carnival Sunday, the scene changes.
The burden passes from the livestock farmers to the fishermen, with the appearance of Trata in the central square.
A boat on wheels, accompanied by musicians and masquerades, becomes the vehicle of satire: rhymed verses, in the authentic Skyrian dialect, humorously comment on local and global current events.

The events culminate on Clean Monday, when residents and visitors, dressed in traditional costumes, fill the square from morning to evening. Traditional dances, live music, Lenten dishes and plenty of wine make up a festival that reminds of summer, even though it is winter.

The Skyrian Carnival attracts thousands of visitors from all over Greece every year.
The demand is so great that occupancy rates on the island often reach over 90%, long before the three-day festival approaches.
That is why those who want to live this unique experience take care of both their accommodation and their ferry tickets in advance.
Nevertheless, even at the last minute, there may be opportunities for those who act quickly.

Carnival is perhaps the best time to get to know Skyros as it really is: authentic, strong, human.
An experience that does not end when the bells go out, and that almost always makes you want to return.