In the mid 60s, a group of Xanthi residents, known for their verve, spirit and liveliness, decided to promote the idea sparked by St. Stathis, MD on holding folkloric festivals during Mardi Gras. Their aim was to promote the Prefecture of Xanthi’s ethnic, spiritual and cultural life while, at the same time, give a boost to the local economy.

As such, the «Mardi Gras Thracian Celebrations» was organised in Xanthi for the first time in 1966. It last a whole week (from the 13th to the 20th of February) and was held at the city’s central square. On the very last day of the festivities a procession of decorated chariots paraded through the city’s central streets. The participants and the event’s organising committee resurrected local and regional traditions, while at the same time included Pontic and Minor Asian customs.

The success of the first Thracian Celebrations surpassed everyone’s expectations. The event was repeated the following year and was stretched into a two-week period, marked by improved organisation and a greater variety of themes. Visitors from throughout Greece amounted to more than 45,000 people. From 1968 and on, the «Thracian Focloric Celebrations», as they were re-named, were moved to Xanthi’s old town section and the Municipal Authority undertook the organisation of the event.