Sparks are lighting up the night sky above Olympiada. In the distance, a faint, bagpipe-driven ecstatic melody is splitting the silence of the night. Crowds are cheering. People of all ages, some wearing masks and costumes, others not, are swarming towards the square of the village. The great bonfire is set, and it’s warm embrace is drawing everyone in. Spirits are elevated, wine is running in abundance. Spring awakens. The Easter countdown begins.
Every year, on the weekend preceding Lent*, once night has set, a bonfire is lit up in the square of Olympiada. According to tradition, the fire has purifying properties and helps dispels evil spirits, so that the new season that begins, spring, is full of blessings.
Shall you find yourselves in Olympiada during this time of the year, the great bonfire is a truly mystical experience you shouldn’t miss!
*the 40-day period before Easter
2022 -2024 Casa Alegria. All right reserved. A project made with by 
