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Heraklion Philharmonic Orchestra Brings Carnival Rhythms to Life

Celebrate the Carnival season in Heraklion with vibrant musical walks and concerts by the Heraklion Philharmonic Orchestra. Events start February 20 – don’t miss out!

  • The Heraklion Philharmonic Orchestra spices up Carnival season with musical walks and live concerts.
  • Events kick off on Thursday, February 20, with performances continuing through February 27.
  • Energetic musical walks will wind through the streets, creating an atmosphere you won’t forget.
  • Featured locations include Freedom Square, Lion Square, and Kornarou Square.
  • Two evening concerts are set for February 25 and February 27 at Justice Street.
  • Conducted by the dynamic Despina Skandalaki.

If you thought parades were the only thing happening during Carnival, think again. The Heraklion Philharmonic Orchestra has cooked up a series of musical strolls packed with lively sounds and cheerful vibes. The first walk from Freedom Square is on Tsiknopempti (Carnival Thursday, February 20) and begins at 7 PM. From there, the marching orchestra will head down Dikaiosynis Street, pause briefly at Daskalogiannis Square, swing by the iconic Lion Square, and wrap things up on Idis Street.

For anyone who’d rather enjoy a morning vibe, Friday, February 21, is the day to note. This time, the music starts rolling at 11 AM from Freedom Square before weaving through Daedalou Street with another pitstop at Lion Square. No, it doesn’t end there — the parade then makes turns at Tzoulaki Street, Idis Street, 1821 Street, and Kosmos Street, wrapping up at the Bembo Fountain in Kornarou Square. It’s a cardio workout for your ears.

Evening Concerts to Close the Celebration

As if the musical marches weren’t enough, the orchestra will also host two full-fledged concerts designed to tie the Carnival events together like a bow on a gift box. These performances are scheduled for Tuesday, February 25, and Thursday, February 27, both starting at 7 PM. The concerts will take place on Justice Street at Daskalogiannis Square, offering the perfect opportunity to experience the orchestra up close. Classic tunes meet festive flair in what promises to be unforgettable evenings.

What You Need to Know

  • Who’s in Charge? None other than the talented Despina Skandalaki will be conducting the orchestral delights.
  • When Does It Start? The beats begin on February 20 and end on February 27. Pencil these dates into your calendar so you don’t miss the fun.
  • Why Go? Because who doesn’t love free, live music that gets your feet tapping and your spirits lifted?

Heraklion’s Carnival events are about more than just masks and costumes. Thanks to the Heraklion Philharmonic Orchestra, the city streets will come alive with music for everyone to enjoy. Don’t let this festive spectacle pass you by.

An announcement in Greek is here: Heraklion Philharmonic Carnival Walks and Concerts.

Categories: Crete
Iorgos Pappas: Iorgos Pappas is the Travel and Lifestyle Co-Editor at Argophilia, where he dives deep into the rhythms, flavors, and hidden corners of Greece—with a special focus on Crete. Though he’s lived in cultural hubs like Paris, Amsterdam, and Budapest, his heart beats to the Mediterranean tempo. Whether tracing village traditions or uncovering coastal gems, Iorgos brings a seasoned traveler’s eye—and a local’s affection—to every story.
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