Boubounes

Planning on spending the Clean Monday long weekend in Kastoria? Then, on Cheesefare Sunday, you will witness the lighting of the Boubounes, one of the region’s most beloved custom. Large outdoor bonfires are lit in neighbourhoods across the city, becoming the centre of lively celebrations filled with brass band music, local delicacies, wine, and tsipouro. Traditionally, the fire symbolizes purification and cleansing before the fasting period of Lent, while also representing the triumph of light over darkness. Gathered around the flames, locals and visitors alike come together in a warm, festive atmosphere, sharing food, music, and dance in a celebration that continues late into the night.