What is Τσικνοπέμπτη all about?
If you ever find yourself in Greece in late winter and notice the air filled with the irresistible smell of grilled meat, lively music in the streets, and people dancing in costume, you’ve probably stumbled upon Τσικνοπέμπτη (Tsiknopempti). Tsiknopempti is one of the most beloved days of the Greek Carnival season, a celebration of food, fun, and community!
But what is Τσικνοπέμπτη?
Tsiknopempti, which literally means “Smoky Thursday” (from the Greek word τσίκνα, meaning the smell of grilled meat, and Πέμπτη, meaning Thursday), takes place during the second week of the Greek Carnival period, known as Απόκριες or Αποκριά (Apokries). It is celebrated 11 days before Καθαρά Δευτέρα (Clean Monday), the start of νηστεία (lent) in the Greek Orthodox calendar. Traditionally, it is the last major opportunity to enjoy meat before the fasting period begins.
How Do We Celebrate?
1. Grilling Everywhere
The main tradition of Tsiknopempti is simple: we grill meat… lots of it. Families, friends, restaurants, and even schools and workplaces set up barbecues. Pork chops, souvlaki, sausages, lamb, and other meats are grilled outdoors. In many neighborhoods, people grill right on the sidewalk, turning the streets into open-air feasts.
2. Street Parties and Costumes
Tsiknopempti is also deeply connected with the festive spirit of Apokries. Many people dress up in costumes, wear masks, and join street parties. Music plays loudly in city centers. From traditional Greek music to modern hits. People dancing on the streets or in bars while eating souvlakia and drinking beers and ρετσίνα (retsina, the sweet wine). Schools organize carnival events for children, while adults enjoy late-night parties that often continue until the early morning hours.
