The Camel’s Wanders
New Year’s Day in Aetos is filled with laughter, music, and an unexpected visitor wandering through the village streets: a camel. The Camel’s Wanders is a traditional custom revived every 1 January, bringing humour, satire, and festive spirit to the celebrations. Two villagers hide beneath a large camel-skin costume to create the camel figure, which moves from house to house accompanied by music, songs, and playful banter. Along the way, the procession comes to life with a “bride” and a “groom”, “judges”, “police officers”, and comic scenes performed at each stop. Villagers laugh, sing, and offer treats to the camel handlers, before everyone gathers in the square to continue the celebration. With its blend of satire, humour, and community spirit, the custom welcomes the new year with the laughter, joy, and togetherness that make it so special.