Fanoi
The most distinctive element of the Kozani Carnival, and the living core of the city’s cultural identity, is the Fanoi. These are traditional bonfires lit on Carnival Sunday at specific crossroads and neighbourhoods throughout the city. Each fire burns on a specially constructed base, resembling an altar, which allows it to remain stable and burning for many hours with minimal effort. Around them, large circles of people gather to dance and, above all, to sing. The songs performed are the traditional songs, sung in their characteristic call-and-response style: a lead singer begins the verse and the rest join in by repeating it. Most are satirical and humorous, while the famous xinentropa, known for their irreverent and provocative spirit, are considered by many to be the most authentic and vibrant expression of the custom. The glow of the flames, the sound of human voices, and the rhythm of the dancing create an atmosphere that immerses visitors in the heart of local tradition. As the fires burn and the wine flows, visitors become part of an experience that seems to bridge past and present. The presence of numerous Fanoi across different parts of the city allows visitors to move from neighbourhood to neighbourhood, discovering different groups, songs, and moments of hospitality. The entire city is transformed into one great festive stage, where tradition meets community spirit and the joy of participation. The importance of the Fanoi to local society is such that the custom has been included in Greece’s National Inventory of Intangible Cultural Heritage. It is a tradition that continues to be passed down from generation to generation, preserving its distinctive character to this day.
