Publication from the Chinese newspaper Global Times for the Carnival of Patras!

The Carnival season is in full swing throughout Greece, with revelries lasting to February 14, the eve of the Clean Monday holiday that marks the beginning of the 40-day Great Lent leading to Orthodox Easter. On Sunday the 14th the Carnival culminates with the grand parade of floats, culminating in the traditional burning of King Carnival which is accompanied by fireworks displays.

Carnival merry-making has gradually spread throughout the country, with cities, towns and villages organizing their own events and float parades reflecting local traditions.

The western port city of Patras, home of Greece's first and longest-running Carnival, has also pulled out all stops this year with a bevy of events that will also culminate in the theme float parade on Sunday.

Already the city of Patras gave a small taste of what is to come on Sunday, during the Children's Carnival parade, which was held on Monday. Fun, enthusiasm, creativity and spontaneity were once again the main characteristics of Children's parade, which left the visitors with the most promising impressions for the Patras Carnival future. The children's floats, like the scientist's air bicycle, the little carnival boy, the icebergs, the recycling drums, the smoke factory and the bath tab, attracted the attention and gave joy both to children and grown ups.

Source: http://life.globaltimes.cn/life/2010-02/505086.html