Life in Cyprus is a vibrant mosaic of festivals, and summer is its most dazzling season—bursting with culture, music, flavors, and local traditions. To truly experience the essence of the island, there's no better way than to attend one of its many summer festivals. They’re a sensory journey into the island’s history, spirit, and warmth.
Kataklysmos: The Festival of the Flood
Held in early June, Kataklysmos—or the Festival of the Flood—coincides with the Orthodox celebration of the Holy Trinity, also known as Pentecost. Though its name evokes images of biblical floods, this joyful festival is anything but somber. Instead, it’s a jubilant celebration of water in all its forms—filled with music, dance, games, and endless splashes.
Kataklysmos is a fascinating fusion of pagan and Christian traditions. The name itself, from the Greek "kataklysmos," means "to wash away," symbolizing purification and renewal. Historically, the festival was tied to the worship of Aphrodite, who, legend says, was born from sea foam. With the rise of Christianity, the celebration also became linked to Noah’s flood.
A fun historical twist: it’s believed that one of Noah’s descendants, Kittim, arrived in Cyprus and founded ancient Kition—modern-day Larnaca. The city is now the heart of the Kataklysmos festivities. Along the palm-lined Finikoudes Promenade, a bustling fair pops up with artisan crafts, traditional treats, and vibrant entertainment.
Expect a full program of cultural performances, includingKaragiozis(traditional shadow puppet theatre) andtsiattista—improvised rhyming duels unique to Cypriot folklore. Water games like beach volleyball, swimming competitions, kayaking, and even jet-skiing are everywhere. The highlight? A sea-blessing ceremony where a priest casts a cross into the water, and eager swimmers race to retrieve it. Whoever returns it to shore receives a special prize and blessing.
Kataklysmos is Cyprus’s most "soaked" festival—literally. With homemade reed water guns and plenty of spontaneous splashing, no one stays dry. It’s the perfect way to cool off on a hot June day—and relive your childhood joy.
Dates: June 6–9, 2025
Location: Finikoudes Promenade, Larnaca
Lavender Festival: A Touch of Provence in Cyprus
When you think of lavender, your mind might wander to the rolling purple fields of Provence—but you don’t need to fly to France to be enveloped in that fragrant magic. Just head to the charming village of Avgorou, where the Cyherbia Botanical Park hosts Cyprus’s annual Lavender Festival.
Wander through blooming lavender fields or book a professional photo session among the flowers. Guests can watch how essential lavender oil is distilled and participate in hands-on workshops crafting cosmetics and keepsakes from lavender. Wellness lovers can join yoga and meditation sessions set amid the tranquil landscape.
Multilingual guides offer insights into lavender’s healing properties in Russian, English, and Greek. And every visitor is treated to complimentary iced lavender tea and freshly baked lavender cookies—a fragrant and flavorful delight.
Dates:June 6–9, 2025
Location:Avgorou
Strawberry Festival: A Berry Sweet Celebration
Cyprus is known for its plump, sweet strawberries, and the village of Deryneia—famous for its strawberry plantations—throws a festival each June to celebrate this luscious fruit. Here, you can taste and take home the juiciest local strawberries, along with jams, desserts, and even strawberry liqueur.
Date: June 6, 2025
Location: Deryneia
Cherry Festivals in the Troodos Mountains
High in the cool Troodos Mountains lie the cherry-growing villages of Kampos and Pedoulas, each with their own summer festival. Kampos, with its stunning Japanese-style cherry orchard, hosts its event in early June. Mid-July sees the festival move to Pedoulas, nestled in the scenic Marathasa Valley.
Enjoy cherry tastings, folk music, local markets, cooking demos, and countless cherry-based treats. Cyprus is home to two main cherry varieties: the dark, almost blackpetrokerasa, and the blush-pinkFrench. These cool-climate villages are the best places to taste them at their peak.
Dates:
Kampos – June 7–8, 2025
Pedoulas – July 14–15, 2025
Tomato Festival: A Juicy Tribute
The tomato takes center stage in June in the village of Parekklisia. This quirky festival celebrates all things tomato—from heritage varieties to unexpected culinary creations. Enjoy a cooking show by renowned local chef Chryso Lefou, who will share her best tomato-based secrets. Sample tomato desserts and even tomato jam—an unexpectedly sweet twist on a savory staple.
Date: June 22, 2025
Location: Parekklisia
Halloumi Festival: Say Cheese, the Cypriot Way
Made from sheep’s milk, halloumi is Cyprus’s signature cheese—beloved for its salty flavor and uniquely springy texture. Whether grilled, fresh, or served with watermelon, halloumi is a staple on Cypriot tables. Visit the picturesque village of Prastio Avdimou in July for an immersive halloumi experience.
You’ll taste fresh halloumi, see how it’s made, and learn about traditional dishes liketrahanas, a rich wheat-and-cheese soup. Hop aboard a tractor tour of the village for scenic views and authentic encounters with local traditions.
Date: July 27, 2025
Location: Prastio Avdimou
Fengaros Festival: Music Beneath the Moonlight
Named after the Greek wordfengari, meaning “moon,” the Fengaros Festival is a magical music event held under the stars. In 2025, the festival takes place in the atmospheric village of Askas. Blending genres from rock and pop to folk and electronic, Fengaros brings together local and international musicians for three unforgettable nights.
In addition to live performances, the program includes music workshops, talks, and creative collaborations. It’s a magnet for artists, fans, and cultural explorers alike.
Dates: July 17–22, 2025
Location: Askas
Lefkara Summer Festival: Lace, Silver, and Storytelling
The mountain village of Lefkara, famous for its handwoven lace (lefkaritika) and intricate silverwork, is one of Cyprus’s most charming destinations. And there’s no better time to visit than mid-August, during the annual Lefkara Summer Festival.
Enjoy a rich program of music, theater, dance, and artisanal fairs. Discover traditional craftsmanship, taste local sweets, and sample Cypriot street food in a festive atmosphere filled with community spirit and artistic flair.
Dates: August 9–19, 2025
Location: Lefkara
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