Skyros has not yet been caught up in the tourism buzz and has thus managed to retain its traditions to a great extent. Many local festivals are celebrated on Skyros throughout the year, though a few are more prominent than others.
One of the most prominent celebrations occurs during the three weeks before Lent and is culminated with a grand carnival parade. This celebration is held during the Greek Halloween, which involves the Geros (or the |
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old man) and the Kopela (or the young girl). Dressed in a woolen black cape, with a face mask made of goat skin and finally wearing a belt of small bells, the Geros is the main figure in the celebrations. Accompanied by his young girlfriend, usually a man wearing traditional Skyrian female clothing, they march through the streets singing and dancing. All locals participate with joy in the festivities. This tradition is followed by Trata, which involves the recital of satiric rhymes. |
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Some other important local festivals include the feast day of Agios Ermolaos, the religious festival of Agios Georgios, which is a huge event for the island and involves a procession with his icon and a parade.
The celebration of the Assumption of the Virgin, on the 15th of August, is an important festival attended by everyone and scrumptious local dishes are served up during this open air festival. |
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