Follow this part of the trail
93 articles
On August 15, Hydra celebrates the Feast of the Assumption with church services and an evening procession of the icon through the town. The island's cathedral, a former monastery dedicated to the Virgin Mary, is at the heart of the festivities.
Every October 26, Thessaloniki honors its patron saint, Agios Dimitrios, with church services, processions, and a city-wide celebration that also marks the anniversary of its liberation. This guide covers the saint's story, the religious observances at the Church of Agios Dimitrios, the relics and catacombs, and how the Dimitria Festival weaves into the feast day.
Every 11 November, Iraklio comes together to honor its patron saint, Agios Minas. The city marks the occasion with religious services, a procession of his icon, and a public holiday. Learn about the saint's legendary protection, the magnificent cathedral at the heart of the celebrations, and how to plan your visit around this deeply local event.
For a small island, Skiathos keeps an outsized devotion to Agios Nikolaos, the patron saint of sailors. On December 6, the town gathers at the old port to light a large illuminated boat by the Bourtzi – a tradition that opens a month of Christmas events.
Every August 15, Parga honors the Assumption of the Virgin Mary with an evening vigil on the islet of Panagia, a shared meal, boat processions, fireworks, and live music. Here’s how to experience the celebrations respectfully and plan ahead.
Deciding when to visit Iraklio for festivals means balancing the city's lively summer scene, the deeply traditional Greek Orthodox Easter processions in spring, and the quieter harvest celebrations of autumn. This guide breaks down each season's events and atmosphere so you can match your travel dates to the experiences you value most, while keeping an eye on weather and crowd levels.
Learn how Iraklio celebrates Apokries, the Greek carnival season before Lent. From the Kastrino Karnavali with its stilt walkers to Tsiknopempti and Clean Monday kite flying, this guide covers local customs, key events, and how to plan a visit without fixed dates.
The Dimitria Festival is a month-long cultural celebration in Thessaloniki honoring the city's patron saint. Learn its Byzantine-era origins, how it has evolved since 1966, and what to expect if you plan a visit during its typical October window. Get practical advice on accommodation, tickets, and navigating the festival alongside other autumn events.
Orthodox Easter is the most significant holiday in Greece, and in Iraklio, Crete, it unfolds as a week of solemn processions, candlelit vigils, and joyful feasts. From the flower‑covered Epitaphios on Good Friday to the midnight Resurrection fireworks and the spit‑roasted lamb of Easter Sunday, this guide explains the customs and practical tips for experiencing them as a visitor in Iraklio, the capital of Crete.
Experience the solemn beauty and festive joy of Greek Orthodox Easter in Nafplio. From Holy Week services and the Good Friday epitaphios procession to the midnight Resurrection and Sunday feasts, this guide helps you plan a meaningful visit.
Greek Orthodox Easter in Oia is a week of solemn services and joyful gatherings, centered on the Midnight Resurrection at Panagia Platsani and fireworks over the caldera. This guide covers the key traditions, where to watch, and how to participate respectfully.
Rethymno Easter merges Orthodox ritual with Cretan customs, offering a rare glimpse into local faith. From the Epitaphios on Good Friday to Resurrection fireworks and feasts on Sunday, this guide helps you join respectfully and plan practically.
