Crete Festivals

Information about the Festivals on Crete island, in Greece but also information about the festivals and panigiria on many locations of the Greek island: Crete island is famous for the amazing panigiria that take place all year round in the villages of the island. These panigiria events are considered a perfect sample of group gatherings in squares, with traditional dancings that last till the early hours. Crete is known as one of the location with the best festivals!

Religious feasts

August 15th

August 15th is the largest religious festival on Crete island, on the occasion of the Dormition of the Virgin Mary. Almost all villages have a chapel dedicated to the Virgin Mary and organize panigiria that day. The most popular panigiria on August 15th are in the Monastery of Panagia Chrissoskalitissa in Chania and in the Byzantine church of Panagia Kera in Lassithi.

April 23rd

On April 23rd, the feast of Agios Georgios is celebrated. Particularly large festivals are organized in Asi Gonia Chania and Plakias in Rethymno.

August 25th

On August 25th, there is a large feast for Saint Titus in Heraklion Town. Saint Titus was the first bishop of Crete and is considered the protector of the island.

Cultural events

Carnival

There are many carnival celebrations on Crete island, including musical concerts, carnival parades and old customs that revive those days. The most popular carnivals take place in Rethymno Town, Heraklion Town, and Sitia.

Houdetsi Festival

This is a 4-day celebration of music, food, and art that takes place in the village of Houdetsi, 23 km south of Heraklion Town. This festival is organized by Ross Daly as a continuation of the Labyrinth Musical Workshop.

Matala Festival

This is an international festival that usually takes place in June in Matala. It is like a trip to the past, with music, art, and literature from 1960 to 1970, the era of the hippies.

Wine Festival

Wine festivals are organized every summer in many villages. Particularly popular is the wine festival in Anogia.

Discover the festivals in each region

Information about the festivals in the regions of Crete: