One of the most characteristic Easter customs of Greece takes place annually in Agrinio, on the night of Good Friday. On this night, following the carriage of the epitaph through the streets, "chalkounades" (people holding chalkounia- a special kind of fireworks) spill into the streets of the city and head to the main square to engage in the famous "chalkounopolemo" (firework war)! This customs has its roots in the Turkish period, when the residents of Agrinio held the fireworks to symbolically chase away the Muslims. The custom survived to our days and is still very popular, as teams were created to compete in the firework war.

There were two (2) competing teams: the one of Aghios Christoforos - Aghia Triada and Aghios Georgios, and the one of Aghios Dimitrios- Panaghia and Evaggelistria.  The preparation of chalkounia starts 1-2 months before Good Friday. Chalkounia are basically handmade explosives, comprised by a tube filled with a mix of powder. The chalkounia fireworks are tested before the event to ensure safety.

In the past, the custom was banned several times due to some accidents. After 1985 the custom was again gaining support, and since then it is supported by the Municipality of Agrinio and takes place every Good Friday on the main square of the city, in a safe environment. Chalkounia is a custom that resembles on its own special way the 1821 rebels, who also used explosives during their struggles for liberation.

The custom of Chalkounia is famous in Greece and receives extensive media coverage during the Easter.