Feast of the Assumption Astypalaia 2019

The central festivities for the Assumption of Mary are taking place at the church of Panagia Portaitissa in the capital of Astypalaia.
The three-day event brings together a large number of islanders living in Athens or abroad. On the eve of the Assumption, a feast takes place in the church’s courtyard after the evening prayer. The next day the so-called "lambriano" (stuffed lamb) is prepared for the feast after the Holy Liturgy.
The "Koukania" takes place on the final day of the festivities. It includes swimming contests, and the game of the rooster (the Islanders tie the effigy of a rooster to a wooden pole smeared with grease and compete to find out who will be the first to reach it).