Kos Festivals & Cultural Events

Of high interest are the religious feasts and cultural events celebrated in Kos, reviving old customs and traditions. Many of them are inspired by the island’s history and local products, offering a unique chance to experience the authentic gastronomy and culture of Kos.

Religious feasts & festivals

Part of Kos’ cultural legacy can be seen in the charming events organized to honor the patron saint of each village. Visitors are welcome to attend and take part in the panigiri, a feast with plenty of food and drinks accompanied by traditional music and dancing. Among the most notable festivals are:

• April 23rd (movable feast)
On the 23rd of April, locals celebrate the feast of Agios Georgios. On that day, horse races take place in Pyli.

• August 15th
On the day of the Dormition of the Virgin Mary, important celebrations are organized in Antimachia and Kefalos.

• August 29th
On the 29th of August, the feast of Agios Ioannis is celebrated in the villages of Mastichari, Kardamena and Kefalos.

Cultural events

• Carnival
The Carnival in Kos is tinged with vibrant local traditions, especially in Antimachia and Kefalos. There, on Carnival Sunday, the locals revive the custom of the so-called kamouzeles, dressing up in colorful blankets, painting their faces with coal and going about the villages, brandishing bones and donkeys’ skulls to tease other people.

• Hippokrateia Festival
Lasting from July to September, the Hippokrateia Festival is the most important cultural event in Kos. The reading of the Hippocratic oath marks the beginning of the festival, which encompasses all forms of art, including concerts, theatrical performances, stagings of ancient Greek tragedies, folklore exhibitions, sculpture workshops, traditional dances and many activities for children.

• Wine Festival
In August, a wine festival is held in Mastichari. Wine is served along with local delicacies and there is traditional music and dancing.

• Honey Festival
On the first Saturday after the 15th of August, a honey Festival takes place in Antimachia, featuring the area’s exquisite honey and a variety of mouthwatering sweets made with it.

• Fish Festival
A fish festival is held in Kefalos both during the first half of August and the first days of September.