Editing Carnival (section)

====Cyprus====
Carnival has been celebrated in [[Cyprus]] for centuries. The tradition was likely established under [[Republic of Venice|Venetian]] rule around the 16th century. It may have been influenced by Greek traditions, such as festivities for deities such as [[Dionysus]]. The celebration originally involved dressing in costumes and holding masked balls or visiting friends. In the twentieth century, it became an organized event held during the 10 days preceding Lent (according to the [[Greek Orthodox]] calendar). The festival is celebrated almost exclusively in the city of [[Limassol]].{{citation needed|date=January 2017}}

Three main parades take place during Carnival. The first is held on the first day, during which the "Carnival King" (either a person in costume or an [[effigy]]) rides through the city on his carriage. The second is held on the first Sunday of the festival, and the participants are mainly children. The third and largest takes place on the last day of Carnival and involves hundreds of people walking in costume along the town's longest avenue. The latter two parades are open to anyone who wishes to participate.{{citation needed|date=January 2017}}