THE STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL IN THE VILLAGE OF DERYNEIA

A GREAT EVENT HELD
IN THE VILLAGE OF DERYNEIA ON JUNE 6TH

SIX DECADES OF PRODUCTION

Strawberries have been associated with the Village of Deryneia since strawberry plantations were first introduced to the area over six decades ago. The area because of this still holds the leading position in strawberry cultivation on the whole island and this is despite the tragic events of the Turkish invasion in 1974, which resulted in the loss of 70% of the strawberry growing region. The fertile soil and unique climate around the village make for an ideal environment for growing the juicy berry and this in turn produces the best strawberries in terms of quality and quantity. This has directly led to a rich tradition of strawberry cultivation and production that remains at the forefront of the industry today.

A CELEBRATION & ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

The Pancyprian Strawberry Festival is a celebration that acknowledges of the dedication and hard work that goes into strawberry production. The celebration also acknowledges the fruit of choice for many of the local farmers and brings to the forefront community, culture, and strawberry tradition. The whole event makes for a lovely day trip for the whole family, and the highly anticipated event has become a beloved tradition that brings joy and happiness to all who attend.

STRAWBERRY BASED ALCOHOL

Every spring, the village of Deryneia comes alive with vibrant colours and the sweet aroma of fresh strawberries. Acting as a reminder of the simple pleasures that can be found in a humble fruit, the festival celebrates this by creating a joyful atmosphere for all who attend. It often brings together people from all walks of life and renews their appreciation of the efforts of the local farmers who make it all possible. The festival, which first took place in 1999, is typically held in late spring or early summer. This occurs after the main strawberry harvest and sees local farmers set up stalls offering fresh strawberries and a number of strawberry based products that include strawberry based alcohol.

JUNE 6TH 2025

The Pancyprian Strawberry Festival is taking place on Friday June 6th this year and it is a highly anticipated event. The evening festival is organised by the Deryneia Municipality in co-operation with the strawberry farmers of Deryneia and will highlight the innovative strawberry farming practices and its products. This year’s festival will once again begin in the early evening and like in previous years, will be held within the grounds of the local football stadium. A purpose built stage will host a number of live performances and a firework show will bring the evening to an end. The event once again is expecting thousands of visitors, who will be looking to indulge in all things strawberry.

A HIGHLY ANTICIPATED EVENT

Visitors will have the opportunity to sample a delightful array of fresh strawberries, juice, jam, preserves, liquor, ice cream and a number of different strawberry desserts. Local farmers and small family enterprises use the festival to highlight the diverse selection of locally crafted goods, each infused with a genuine dedication and love for the small red berry. Visitors are able to tour the various stalls serving up delicious strawberry based goods, culminating with live music and dance performances that make for a fun day out for the whole family. As well as fresh, ripe strawberries, the festival also offers a wide variety of strawberry based products that include several treats. Homemade strawberry desserts take centre stage along with a variety of homemade strawberry based jams. Hand-made strawberry smoothies and ice cream are also available throughout the evening, as well as a variety of alcoholic strawberry based liquors. Strawberry based cosmetics including soaps and toothpaste are also available.

THE STRAWBERRY DESSERT COMPETITION

One of the highlights of the festival is the strawberry dessert competition, where amatuer bakers take part in a competition to create the best strawberry dessert. The event features severla versions of tarts, cakes, parfaits and cheesecakes. This highlights the versatility of the fruit and the creativity of the competition’s participants. Visitors have the opportunity to sample the desserts and vote for their favourite, with the winner receiving a prize and prestige for the rest of the year.

SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE

The aim of the festival is not only to celebrate, but also to promote the innovative cultivation and distribution of the fruit and its bi-products in combination with a cultural and artistic program of events. The festival also serves as a platform to educate visitors about the importance of natural sustainable agriculture and how supporting local farmers contributes to the well being of the environment. A program of seminars that highlights the many aspects of strawberry cultivation are held and visitors can actively participate in various workshops that are designed to educate in the ways of natural sustanable farming. Agricultural experts as well as local farmers hold talks and then demonstrate strawberry cultivation techniques. They use both new and old farming methods and practices, highlighting the hard work and dedication that goes into growing the fruit on a large scale. Visitors are able to learn about the benefits of buying locally grown produce and how their support for the local farmers helps promote a more direct sustainable and environmentally friendly food system.

A PROGRAM OF LIVE MUSIC & DANCING

In addition to the food and beverages, the festival also features a whole program of entertaining live music and dancing for all ages to enjoy. Local musicians and performers take the stage to entertain the crowds, creating a lively atmosphere that adds to the overall experience of the festival. There are also a number of children’s games and activities, as well as face painting, making this a fun and family-friendly event. The program of entertainment is brought to a stunning close with an impressive firework display in the late evening.