Clean Monday – The Presentation of the Koudounoforoi

Clean Monday – The Presentation of the Koudounoforoi

ByStephanie Banks

The morning of Clean Monday began with a light smattering of snow that settled on the hills above Sochos. Here in the village, the flakes melted as soon as they hit the ground. Such is the early March weather in Northern Macedonia. Today is the finale of Carnival. Clean Monday or Kathara Deftera marks the…

Sochos Carnival – the Parody Weddings

Sochos Carnival – the Parody Weddings

ByStephanie Banks

Sunday morning brought with it a bout of light drizzle. The overcast sky did not feel very “Carnival” to me. From within the church, the solemn tone of the priest’s chanting reminded all that now is a time for Christian worship. The Pagan revelry will come later. There were very few signs of life outside,…