Nearly 5,000 kilos of meat deemed as unsuitable for consumption was seized in a warehouse due north of Athens

Crowds filled downtown Athens as the city marked the start of Carnival with traditional dances, a historic island custom revival, and open-air celebrations with food, music and community.

Veterinarian warns that giving pets or stray animals grilled meat, bones, or heavily spiced leftovers can cause choking, digestive injuries, or pancreatitis. Safe alternatives include plain cooked meat or proper pet food

Unstable weather is set to disrupt festivities across much of the country, with strong storms, gusty winds, and localized snow in the mountains, while authorities place western regions on heightened alert for flooding.

Experts advise on safe outdoor cooking as heavy rain hits Greece on Tsiknopempti, highlighting precautions for charcoal and electric grills to avoid accidents and preserve food quality

Localized rainfall and cloud cover starting today and all through Saturday in Greece

Showers and storms are expected across much of Greece on the popular grilling holiday, with unsettled conditions likely to affect outdoor celebrations in several regions.

Tsiknopempti is dedicated to eating meat and indulgence; the last chance before Lent ahead of Orthodox Easter.