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PATRAS, Greece, March 10-- Thousands of revelers and spectators flooded the streets of Patras on Sunday for an impressive parade marking the end of Greece's three-week carnival season. For over a century the city port in western Greece, 220 kilometers west of Athens, is considered the "king" of carnivals in Greece. Patras hosts the largest and most vibrant carnival events throughout Greece. This year a group of 25 artists from Beijing also joined in the party, invited by the city authorities. Over 30 colorful floats satirizing politicians, social trends and even economic woes, combined with the participants' joviality spread once again the message of determination to beat all challenges with humor. Masqueraders of all ages divided into 130 different themed groups marched across the city center, inviting the crowd to join in the festivity. "Patras carnival forever!" chanted Angela, a participant. Most of the revelers were locals who have been taking part in the parade since they were kids following a family tradition. "It is a tradition (for our family) for the past 30 years," Paulina told Xinhua, dancing with her husband and two kids. The Chinese artists performed dragon and lion dance, to the cheers of the crowd. "It was an honor, an amazing performance, uNPRecedented in our city. We got to know China's culture. We are grateful they came," Nikolaos Chrysovitsanos, president of the Municipal Public Benefit Company "Patras Carnival", told Xinhua. | 
