Kastorian Ragoutsaria – Traditional Carnival

In a special festive and joyful atmosphere, the custom of “Ragoutsaria” takes place in the city of Kastoria on 6, 7 & 8 January every year.
It is a three-day carnival event during which the city acquires a special colour and festive atmosphere. The Ragoutsaria starts on 6 January on the day of Theofaneia and ends on 8 January (Pateritsa), with the parade of carnivalists on Mitropoleos Street.
The orchestras, which are composed exclusively of brass and percussion instruments, are the quintessence of the Kastorian “Ragoutsari”. Young and old alike are organized in “bouloukia” (groups) where each with its own orchestra and constantly moving, dancing non-stop in the streets giving a special rhythm to the city. The gathering of the carnivalists in the square “Doltcho-Emmanuel Brothers” on January 8 is of particular interest. There, and in a festive musical romp, carnivalists, visitors and the square become one.
The charm of the Ragoutsaria is an extension of the charm of Kastoria itself. No matter how well you know both, it is difficult to separate the history from the myth.