Summer ushers in some wonderful festivals and some exciting social events across the island. These offer several things to do and see, and allow for Cypriot culture and tradition to come to the forefront, along with the sizzling temperatures. These festivals, events, and holiday celebrations vary in size and also include religious celebrations and sporting events. Attending them goes hand-in-hand with food, drink, music, and dance, and these occasions are also the perfect opportunity to socialise, meet new people, and have fun, whilst being immersed in Cypriot culture. There is something meaningful for everyone to experience, and adding a Cyprus festival or two to a summer travel plan is a good option.
A selection of cultural events taking place across the island offering various things to do throughout summer
THE FOINI LOUKOUMI FESTIVAL
Authentic Traditional Cyprus loukoumi contains no artificial flavours, taste enhancers, or other additives. One of the most traditional places for making the Cypriot sweet of choice is the village of Foini. The village, located in the heart of the Troodos mountain range, within the district of Limassol is celebrating this through its annual Loukoumi Festival being held on June 1st from 11.00 am to 7.00 pm. The event will be held in the village square, and visitors can look forward to a rich program of events that will include live music.
The Loukoumi Festival
Starting 11.00 am on June 1st
The village of Foini
THE LARNACA KATAKLYSMOS FESTIVAL
Celebrated throughout Cyprus, but particularly in the City of Larnaca, the Kataklysmos Festival, also known as the Pentecost Festival of the Flood, is a popular cultural event. Larnaca The Finikoudes promenade is transformed when it hosts the annual festival and it becomes a vibrant setting that creates an atmosphere that permeates the whole city during the festival. The the 50th day after Greek Orthodox Easter Sunday, marks the beginning of the festival and this is usually marked by a parade and then a series of various events and shows. This day also celebrates the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the apostles and is a time for local communities to come together, participate in various festivities, and celebrate in a true Cypriot fashion.
The Larnaca Kataklysmos Festival of the Flood
Starting 4.00 pm on June 6th to June 12th
Finikoudes Promenade
City of Larnaca
THE FENAROS WATERMELON FESTIVAL
The village of Frenaros, within the district of Famagusta, is to host its annual watermelon festival on June 28th. Festivities start from 7.00 pm at the village stadium. The free entry festival features several unique treats that include jams, jellies, cocktails, candied rinds, ice cream, and beer, all made from watermelon. A contest for the biggest watermelon and several food tastings will also be taking place, along with traditional music and dancing.
The Watermelon Festival
Starting 7.00 pm on June 28th
The stadium of the village of Frenaros
THE NICOSIA SUMMER NIGHTS FESTIVAL
The Municipality of Nicosia is hosting free cultural evenings in the heart of the capital city. Events will take place every evening from the beginning of July through to the end of September. Local artists, musicians, poets, and actors will present a vibrant programme of various performances. The festival starts on the with an evening dedicated to literature on July 1st. The Eleftheria Square amphitheatre will host recitals of works by local authors along with live music. Other events, which also make up part of the festival, will take place at various locations across the city. These include Engomi, Ayios Dometios, and Aglantzia.
The Nicosia Summer Nights Festival
Starting 7.00 pm on July 1st
The City of Nicosia
THE LIOPETRI CARROT FESTIVAL
The village of Liopetri, within the district of Famagusta, is to host its annual carrot festival on July 5th. Festivities start from 8.00 pm at the village stadium. The free entry festival features a unique setting for the carrot-inspired food and drinks experience, promising a fun-filled night of music, unique flavours, and all things carrot! Offerings include jams, preserves, liqueurs, donuts, pies, cakes, fresh juices, and cocktails. A music concert will follow with live music performances by famous Greek stars, Giorgos Margaritis, Kelly Kelekidou, and Giorgos Tsalikis.
The Carrot Festival
Starting 8.00 pm on July 5th
The stadium of the village of Liopetri
THE FENGAROS MUSIC FESTIVAL
The Lumina Botanical Gardens, in the village of Kornos, will host one of the biggest music festivals held annually in Cyprus. Featuring three days of live performances by artists from all over the world, the festival will also showcase local Cypriot bands, which will include emerging talents as well as established names, which will offer a vibrant taste of the island’s creative spirit.
The Fengaros Music Festival
Lumina Botanical Gardens in the village of Kornos
Starting at 7.00 pm on July 31st to August 2nd
