Sikinos Festivals & Cultural Events

Sikinos is a small island with precious traditions and age-old customs regardless of the tourist development of the island. The residents enjoy every celebration to its fullest with a lot of music, folklore dances, food, and wine. Sikinos celebrates many religious festivals. The most important religious events include the festival for the Dormition of the Virgin Mary on August 15th, the Exaltation of the Holy Cross on September 14th and the Holy Transfiguration on August 6th.

During the festivities, the island echoes with the sound of the violin, lute, and bagpipes. There is a grand feast associated with every celebration. The inhabitants are very particular about their celebrations. Each feast is celebrated meticulously: the churches and the houses are decorated and whitewashed and women prepare traditional dishes. The church also organizes a grand feast after the Holy Mass. The celebrations last till late at night with music and dancing.

The Sikinos Summer Festival is the most popular festival in Sikinos. This is a grand festival taking place in August and lasts for about two weeks. All islanders and visitors join in and there are lots of events, including music concerts, exhibitions, and dancing. A special documentary film festival is conducted as part of the Summer Festivities.