All destinations in Greece offer festivals that showcase their history, culture, and traditions, making them fantastic destinations for cultural enthusiasts year-round.
All over Greece, there are 3 major festive seasons related to religion and going beyond that to the culture and tradition. This is Christmas and New Year in December, Easter in April (usually, it is not a fixed date but is always on Sunday and in Spring) and the celebration for Virgin Mary on 15 August. There are also 2 national days with school and military parades in all cities (25 March and 28 October). Halloween celebration is in February. Everywhere in Greece these festivals and celebrations are iconic and joyous!
In addition to these festivals, one of the most celebrated events is the Athens & Epidaurus Festival (June to August), a grand cultural event that features performances of ancient Greek theater, classical music, and modern dance at iconic venues like the Herodeion ancient theater on the side of the Acropolis hill and the Epidaurus Theater, in about 2 hrs driving distance from Athens. To attend a performance of this festival is a truly amazing experience to cherish for a lifetime!
During the summer months in Crete, don’t miss the Heraklion Summer Festival, a long-standing cultural institution of unfailing impact. It features major events in various forms of theatre, music, dance and cinema, in aiming to showcase local artistic potential, creativity and the capabilities of people keen to express themselves and share facets of their talent. The other cities of Crete organize similar events too.
Also in Crete, many festivals and events take place to celebrate the harvest of many local products such as the grapes, the wine, the olive oil, the bananas and so much more!
In Santorini, if you visit in August, attend the Ifestia Festival (Volcano Festival). It features a reenactment of a volcanic eruption with fireworks and a series of events, concerts and dance performances. In September the International Music Festival welcomes artists from the international music scene.
Keep in touch with YONA TRAVEL for updated information about festivals and events during your vacation. Also, check our Blog with posts about the festivals and celebrations around Greece.