Visitors to the island will surely notice the locals’ love for celebration and feasts, which are always accompanied by abundant food, dancing, and wine. On your visit, you will find that the locals never miss an opportunity to have fun, and you will surely enjoy attending one of the many open events where everyone is invited and welcome.
The August 15th Festivals
In mid-August, the Greeks celebrate the Dormition of the Virgin Mary, the biggest holiday of Orthodoxy. Locals organize grand feasts to celebrate August 15th, as every prefecture in Crete has its church or monastery dedicated to the Virgin Mary, which the faithful visit to worship. Each village organizes festivities for days, and some of the biggest events are held in Lasithi, Chania, and Heraklion. The traditional music of the lyra and violin fills the air, and the dancing never stops! In the island’s biggest celebration, traditional Cretan food is served, which varies according to the prefecture. The menu includes lamb or rooster with pilaf or potatoes, handmade sausages, salads, and traditional desserts. Of course, there is no shortage of wine, raki, and beer.
Matala Beach Festival
Matala in Heraklion is the ultimate summer destination and hosts one of the biggest music festivals in Europe every year in June. The Matala Beach Festival is a three-day event that features the best Greek and foreign music artists. It is open to all age groups free of admission! You’ll have access to concerts, activities with music, games, dancing, and surprises that will excite both young and old. The festival also showcases new projects by street musicians, promoting the art and culture of the Matala region. This is an unforgettable experience that you simply cannot miss out on!
The Half-Marathon in Crete
Annually, Arkalochori of Heraklion, Crete welcomes athletes from Greece and all over the world with a grand celebration of sports, the Crete’s Half-Marathon. The marathon features races of 5, 10, and 1000 km as well as races for children and the disabled covering a distance of 200m. This event is a testament to the vitality of exercise and attracts athletes who appreciate the warmth of Cretan hospitality. Participants run between neighboring villages and are cheered on by locals who attend to witness and encourage the athletes. After the race, everyone gathers for a delightful feast and dance. One of the most significant events in Greece, the Crete’s Half-Marathon is a life-changing experience that you definitely should witness.
Carnival in Rethymnon
The Cretan Carnival is a vibrant tradition influenced by the ancient times and it’s truly indulging into the multicultural heritage of the region. Every year in February, people from all over Greece and around the world come together in Rethymno to participate in the carnival celebrations. The festival is a vibrant showcase of dance, songs and costumes that unites people and reflects the joy and unity that comes from art and colors. The carnival spirit is an unwavering and optimistic symbolism, for always overcoming any obstacles despite adversities and setbacks. This is a once-in-a-lifetime unforgettable experience that you would undoubtedly want to relive!
Xynohontros and Mouzoudia
Mochos is a small village located in Heraklion, Crete that is famous for its Xynohontros custom. Each year, on the Saturday of the second week of the carnival, the local cultural association organizes a special event; The residents of the village dress up in carnival costumes and face masks, with smudges of ash on their faces called mouzoudia. They also enjoy a traditional dish called xynohontro, which is a soup made of dried wheat and milk. The locals gather together to dance, sing, and have fun in a big feast that lasts until morning.
The Cretans have countless customs, traditions, and manners, each of which holds immense importance to them. They love to enjoy themselves and share their happiness with everyone around them. Engage yourself in Cretan culture and tradition by attending one of the local festivals, and don’t hesitate to join in on the festivities and experience everything this amazing culture has to offer.