DRINKING WINE BRINGS PEOPLE TOGETHER
LIMASSOL’S PREMIER ANNUAL EVENT
A VIBRANT CELEBRATION OF CYPRIOT WINE CULTUREÂ
The Limassol Wine Festival is a vibrant annual celebration of the island’s grape harvest and the viticulture that arises from it and holds a distinguished special place in the cultural calendar of Cyprus. The event which is known for its vibrant atmosphere and deep-rooted traditions is held in the Municipal Public Gardens of Limassol and this setting provides a beautiful and centrally accessible setting for the event. Wine making on the island has existed for centuries and it has contributed greatly to many facets of Cypriot culture and history. The Limassol district as a whole has always had an affiliation with wine and boasts some of the main wine villages of Cyprus within its borders. The festival pays homage to these villages, as well as the island’s rich winemaking heritage and fosters a sense of community through the shared love of Cypriot wines and spirits. The festival attracts people from all over the island, offering a unique opportunity to experience the rich traditions of Cypriot winemaking. Â
AN UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCE
My visit to the festival was an unforgettable experience that was filled with delightful flavours and engaging activities. The sun was just setting as I approached the festival grounds and the queues at the main entrance were already forming. The aroma of sizzling barbecued meat wafted through the air and instantly got my attention as I paid the minimal charge for an entry that gave me a free wine entitlement. Upon entering the festival, I was greeted by some colourful banners and decorations that adorned not only the main entrance but the façade surrounding it. The huge statue of the traditional ‘winemaker’ was attracting all of the attention and several people were busily taking photos by it. All of the island’s wine producers were on display and I they were featuring a myriad of wine stalls with a variety of local wines. Each seating area, mainly by busy restaurants, had local musicians playing live music in the background and there were also a number of other stalls selling local crafts and delicacies. Â
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A DIVERSITY OF WINES
The diversity of wines available was astounding and they included a huge range of sweet dessert wines to robust reds, refreshing rosés and crisp whites. After much deliberation, I decided to start my wine-tasting journey with a small glass of Commandaria, the famous Cypriot dessert wine, Known for its rich flavour and historical significance, I learned about the wine’s ancient origins, dating back to the Crusades as I savoured the sweet notes of dried fruits and mellow honey. This led to me purchasing a bottle to take home with me along with a beautifully crafted hand-made wine corkscrew. As I waded through the crowd I came across some other knowledgeable vendors, who were eager to share their expertise, providing insights into the winemaking process and the unique characteristics of each wine. I purchased some ornate empty bottles and then had them filled with some traditional village wine on tap from several barrels that lined the path. I was advised by the vendor to add water to the wine before drinking, as it was very strong!
TRADITIONAL MUSIC & DANCES
In addition to wine tasting, the festival offered a plethora of activities that featured authentic Cypriot culture. The island’s rich heritage was being expressed with several performances of traditional music and dance that captivated the audience. I was particularly drawn to a group of dancers performing a lively traditional Cypriot dance known as the ‘Syrtos’. Their vibrant costumes and energetic movements created an infectious atmosphere, encouraging festivalgoers to join in the fun. I found myself swept up in the rhythm, dancing alongside locals and fellow visitors, and this truly created a sense of camaraderie that transcended both language and culture.
A FULFILLING CULINARY EXPERIENCE
As I continued to explore the festival, I stumbled upon a cooking demonstration featuring traditional Cypriot dishes. The chef expertly prepared dishes such as moussaka and souvlaki. The chef told me that he only used fresh, local ingredients and the tantalising aromas that filled the air, made my mouth water in anticipation of the food. After the demonstration, I had the opportunity to sample the dishes, which were bursting with Cypriot flavours. Pairing the food with a glass of local wine enhanced the experience and I gladly found that the flavours complemented each other beautifully.
WINE WORKSHOPS
I was allowed to participate in a wine-making workshop. Led by a local winemaker, the workshop provided a hands-on experience of the winemaking process. I learned about the different grape varieties grown in Cyprus and the techniques used to produce high-quality wines. The winemaker guided us through the steps of crushing grapes, fermenting the juice, and ageing the wine in barrels. It was fascinating to see the passion and dedication that goes into each bottle, allowing me to gain a newfound appreciation for the craft.
A GREAT ATMOSPHERE
I found a cosy spot on a bench and as I sat back relaxing, I had a chance to soak in the atmosphere and reflect on the day’s experiences. The sense of community was palpable, as strangers shared stories and laughter over glasses of wine, united by the joy of the festival. The atmosphere during the festivities was lively and music was constantly playing in the background. As the evening set in, the festival transformed into a magical setting filled with twinkling lights that gave the surroundings a real festive ambience. The laughter echoing among the crowd and the sound of clinking glasses just above the light conversation, along with the distant music made it an evening to savour. Â
A REMARKABLE EXPERIENCE
My visit to the Limassol Wine Festival was a remarkable experience that created some welcome memories and I left the festival with a deeper appreciation for the art of winemaking. The souvenirs I took away with me would definitely serve as a reminder of the wonderful memories created during the festival. The celebration of the rich Cypriot culture and traditions along with the delightful wine tasting left me some lasting memories and the engaging performances and hands-on workshops also filled me with both great joy and discovery. I found that the festival had fostered a sense of community and connection amongst all of the visitors and I am eagerly anticipating my visit next year to this enchanting celebration next year.
The oldest running summer festival in Cyprus celebrates the grape harvest and the Greek tradition of Dionysis, the Greek god of wine
The festival will feature
Wine exhibitors: Local wine exhibitors will be on display.
Food: Local dishes will be available.
Cultural events: The festival will include traditional folklore, dances, and songs.
Children’s area: There will be games, rides, and other activities.
Main performances: The festival will include concerts, theatre performances, and magic shows.
THE LIMASSOL WINE FESTIVAL
The 8 most common questions asked
1. When does the Limassol Wine Festival take place?
The Limassol Wine Festival takes place annually usually during September.
2. Where is the festival held?
The festival is held in the Limassol Municipal Gardens, located in the heart of Limassol, just off of the coastal road.
3. Is the festival suitable for children?
The festival is family-friendly and offers a dedicated kids’ area with various activities to keep children entertained.
4. Where can tickets be purchased?
Tickets can be purchased at the festival entrance and it is recommended to arrive early to avoid long queues.
5. Is there free wine available at the festival?
Free wine is readily available for all ticket holders at the festival and special souvenir bottles and glasses are available for purchase to carry the wine home or drink it on the spot.
6. Are there vegetarian/vegan food options available?
The festival offers a wide range of food options, including vegetarian and vegan dishes.
7. Is there parking available at the festival?
There are designated parking areas near the festival grounds, but it is advisable to use public transport to avoid traffic and parking difficulties. The Intercity bus and the local bus 30 both service the Limassol Municipal Gardens.
8. Is there any accommodation nearby?
There are a range of hotels, apartments and hostels within walking distance or a short drive from the festival grounds.
INTERCITY BUS INTO LIMASSOL OR LOCAL BUS 30 TO THE LIMASSOL MUNICIPAL GARDENS
