Dionysia originated as an ancient rural festival celebrating the cultivation of vines, fertility and masquerade. Later becoming associated with the mythological god Dionysus.

In the 7th centuary BC, the City Dionysia evolved, staging the origins of tragedy, comedy and satyric drama.

With the coming of christianity, the festival marks the 40 day fast for Easter. The present celebration of Apokries from the Greek 'απο' (without) and 'κρέας' (meat) continues worldwide in various forms, such as the Carnival from the Latin 'carne' (flesh) and 'vale' (leave).

This year, on the 18th of February 2007, we celebrate a tradition dating back 4,000 years.