In June, hundreds of people swarm the streets of Korça, uniting to celebrate Carnival. Recognized by its vibrantly colored floats and costumes, parades and an abundance of food, music and festivities, Carnival celebrations in the city are truly a spectacle that attract tourists to the hosting city.

Over 400 citizens have gathered to celebrate through dancing, music, visual arts and by creating spaces for community learning and education.

“We are from Poland and Ukraine and we decided to come to Korça today to watch the Carnival party, to see what’s going on here. Everything looks so amazing, everybody is smiling, people are beautiful, so we think it will be a nice day. We weren’t here this time last year, so we are happy to be here,” said a couple who were in Korça to enjoy the celebrations.

Mark Stocher, an American citizen, who has lived in Kolonja for years, says that the celebrations are amazing and that everyone is having a great time.

“It’s a beautiful day, look at how bright the sun is, how beautiful it is,” Stocher said.

This celebration started this morning and will continue until late at night with a “Street party carnival” in the Old Bazaar of Korça.