The Cultural Association of Nivritos is bringing tradition to life at this year’s Apokrigiómata in Gergeri, reviving two unique Clean Monday rituals: the Donkey Ritual and the Faskomilades. The event will take place on March 3, 2025, with students from the Gergeri Elementary School also taking part, under the guidance of their teacher, Maria Prinianaki.

According to Fylakti Zacharioudaki, a member of the association, both rituals have deep historical roots and reflect aspects of everyday life in the region—wrapped in humor and symbolism.

This tradition dates back centuries. At its core, there is a donkey’s head, a wooden plank, and a long cloth covering two men who operate the structure from within. The front man controls the donkey’s jaw with a rope, making it open and close, while the “donkey driver” steals the show. He struggles to manage the stubborn animal, which refuses to obey, bumps into spectators, and resists moving forward.

The performance is a humorous nod to daily life in rural Crete, where dealing with a headstrong donkey was a familiar challenge. Strength is required to carry out the act, so only men participate, and skill is essential for a convincing performance. The donkey driver wears worn-out clothes and shoes, adding to the authenticity of the scene.

This is a newer tradition, inspired by the local sage harvest. In the past, villagers would climb the mountains of Pano Riza to gather faskomilo (sage), bring it back to the village, and spread it out on rooftops to dry—filling the air with its unmistakable fragrance. This wasn’t just a task; it was an act of love and tradition, contributing to the family’s income.

Women and children participate in this ritual, dressed in burlap sacks, with only their heads and hands visible. They are decorated with sage branches and a wreath, while their faces are painted white, symbolizing the purity of that era.

This year’s Clean Monday celebrations in Gergeri promise a journey into the past, blending folklore, humor, and nostalgia. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, this is an experience worth witnessing!