**LIMASSOL, CYPRUS** – As the Mediterranean sun casts a warm glow over Limassol, the city is already abuzz with anticipation for its much-anticipated cultural calendar in 2026. Preparations are underway for the renowned Limassol Carnival, promising a spectacle of renewed vigour and cherished traditions, while simultaneously, the VIMA Art Fair has unveiled an ambitious curatorial project poised to provoke contemplation and foster connection.
The Limassol Municipality, under the leadership of Mayor Yiannis Armeftis, is meticulously orchestrating the February 12-22 carnival festivities. This year's iteration is set to be a dynamic blend of established heritage and innovative enhancements. Mayor Armeftis highlighted the commitment to enriching the carnival experience, stating, "This year’s carnival appears more dynamic, renewed and enriched, with events upgraded whilst maintaining and strengthening authentic and historic elements including satirical floats, pellomaska traditional masks, handmade costumes and large dances." The traditional spirit, characterised by its satirical floats, the distinctive pellomaska masks, and the melodic chants of the cantadores, will be amplified, ensuring that the soul of the celebration remains intact.
A significant announcement for the upcoming carnival is the selection of Amaryllis Kyriakou as the 2026 Limassol Carnival Queen. This honour recognises Kyriakou's decades-long dedication to the city's most vibrant event. Her involvement dates back to 1985 as a companion, and she has been a driving force with her own groups since 2005, deeply embedding herself within the carnival's fabric. Her appointment is a testament to the enduring community spirit that the carnival cultivates, extending its celebratory reach across neighbourhoods like Agia Fyla, Agios Nikolaos, and Mesa Geitonia. The official programme presentation took place at the Panos Solomonides Municipal Cultural Centre, signalling the official commencement of the countdown.
In parallel, the VIMA Art Fair is set to present its 2026 curatorial project, titled "The Waves Crashing," from May 15-17, with a preview on May 14. Hosted at The Warehouse by IT Quarter, this initiative, curated by Greek curator Kostas Stasinopoulos, delves into profound themes of interconnectedness, the passage of time, and introspection. The project draws inspiration from the evocative imagery of waves, symbolising both the ephemeral nature of existence and the powerful forces that shape our perceptions. A preview of the project's conceptual underpinnings revealed, "To begin a wave is to relinquish certainty: you may never hear it crash, never see where or how it breaks. To be able to receive, a wave demands a profound reorientation of internal and external intentions and politics."
"The Waves Crashing" will manifest as a comprehensive artistic experience, featuring a group exhibition alongside a live programme encompassing film screenings, performances, and engaging discussions. The intention is to create an immersive environment, primarily utilising the outdoor spaces of the venue, encouraging participants to reflect on contemporary modes of communication and societal progress. By fostering imagination and promoting a heightened sense of attunement, the VIMA Art Fair aims to offer a crucial space for re-evaluation and deeper understanding in an increasingly complex world. Both the Limassol Carnival and the VIMA Art Fair, though distinct in their expressions, are poised to significantly enrich the cultural landscape of Limassol in 2026, offering residents and visitors alike opportunities for joy, reflection, and strengthened community bonds.