Festivals in Paros
Photo by: Nikos Efstratiou
Paros is a lively island known for its vibrant festivals, blending Greek tradition with joyful celebrations. Throughout the year, the island hosts a variety of cultural and religious events filled with music, dance, and local flavors. To help you plan your visit, we’ve gathered all the amazing festivals of Paros in one place, making it easy to find information and join in the festivities during your stay.
June
The Park Festival (June – August, Monastiri, near Naoussa)
One of the biggest summer festivals on the island, taking place at Paros Park in Monastiri, near Naoussa. This open-air venue, surrounded by dramatic landscapes and the Aegean Sea, hosts a variety of events, including concerts, theatrical performances, film screenings, and cultural activities. With a backdrop of stunning natural scenery, the festival creates a unique atmosphere where art and nature come together.
The Kleidonas Festival (June 23, Naoussa, Prodromos, Aliki)
This traditional midsummer festival is rooted in ancient fire rituals. As part of the celebration, villagers bring Mayday flower wreaths and burn them in a large bonfire, symbolizing renewal and protection. According to custom, people take turns gently leaping over the flames, a playful tradition said to bring good fortune. The evening continues with traditional music, dancing, and an abundance of local food and wine.
July
Fish Festival (First Sunday of July, Naoussa)
A festival dedicated to the island’s strong fishing traditions, taking place at the picturesque harbor of Naoussa. Locals gather to celebrate with fresh seafood, souma (a traditional Parian spirit), and live Greek music. Traditional dancers in vibrant costumes perform in the square, creating a lively and welcoming atmosphere.
Agia Marina Feast (July 16-17, Kostos)
A religious and cultural event in the mountain village of Kostos, honoring Saint Marina, the protector of children. Following the church service, the village square fills with music and dancing, with long tables set for a feast of homemade dishes and local wine. The atmosphere is one of community and warmth, as both residents and visitors come together to celebrate.
Agia Anna Feast (July 24, Parikia)
Held in Parikia, this feast in honor of Saint Anna begins with a church service and continues with a small gathering featuring traditional music and island specialties. The event carries a strong sense of local identity and heritage.
August
Panagia Ekatontapyliani Festival (August 15, Parikia)
One of the most significant religious and cultural celebrations in Paros, dedicated to the Dormition of the Virgin Mary at the historic Panagia Ekatontapyliani Church. The day begins with a grand religious procession through Parikia, accompanied by hymns and ceremonial offerings. As night falls, fireworks light up the sky, while traditional musicians and dancers fill the main square, keeping the celebration going until the early hours.
Karavolas Festival (First Saturday after August 15, Lefkes)
A festival named after the local delicacy “karavoles” (large snails), held in the mountain village of Lefkes. A variety of traditional dishes are prepared, paired with unlimited local wine, while live music and dancing take over the village square. The event is known for its lively spirit, welcoming atmosphere, and deep connection to local culinary traditions
Festival of the Pirates (August 23, Naoussa)
A historical reenactment of the pirate attacks that once threatened Paros, bringing to life a key chapter of the island’s past. Locals dressed as pirates and villagers stage an exciting battle at the harbor of Naoussa, complete with dramatic fireworks and traditional music. The event transforms into a huge street celebration, with dancing and feasting in the narrow alleys of the old town, carrying on until the early morning hours.
Agios Fanourios Feast (August 27, Ampelas)
A religious festival dedicated to Saint Fanourios, believed to help people find lost items or offer guidance. As part of the tradition, worshippers prepare a special cake known as Fanouropita and bring it to the church as an offering. The event in Ampelas is a heartfelt celebration, with locals gathering to share prayers, food, and music.
Feast of Agios Ioannis Theologos (August 29, Drios, Lefkes)
A religious feast held in Drios and Lefkes, featuring a church service followed by traditional music and community gatherings where homemade dishes and local wine are shared. The atmosphere is one of faith and togetherness.
Chickpea Festival (August, Prodromos – exact date varies)
The village of Prodromos celebrates revithada, a slow-cooked chickpea dish that has been a staple of Parian cuisine for generations. The preparation begins on Saturday night as large clay pots filled with chickpeas, olive oil, and herbs are placed in old-fashioned wood-fired ovens. After slow-cooking overnight, the dish is served on Sunday morning following church prayers. Visitors can watch the entire process and sample different chickpea-based delicacies, accompanied by local wine, souma, and traditional music. A photo exhibition showcases the history of chickpea cultivation and its importance to Parian culture.
September
Festival of Trata (Early September, Parikia)
A celebration of Paros’ fishing heritage, where fishermen display their freshly caught seafood along the waterfront of Parikia. The festival is a feast of flavors, with grilled fish, souma, and lively folk music filling the evening air. Locals and visitors gather at long communal tables, sharing stories and dancing under the stars.
Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross (September 14, Ageria, Aliki)
A religious festival held in Ageria and Aliki, featuring church services and community feasts where music, traditional dishes, and wine bring people together in celebration.
Ta Kapetanika Festival (Mid-September, Monastiri Boatyard, Naoussa)
Held in Monastiri Boatyard near Naoussa, Ta Kapetanika is a maritime festival honoring the island’s rich seafaring traditions and paying tribute to Kostas, a beloved local captain who dedicated his life to the sea. The event features boat races, traditional music, and dance performances, bringing together sailors, fishermen, and visitors in a heartfelt celebration. The evening concludes with a feast of seafood, wine, and local delicacies, keeping the spirit of Paros' maritime heritage alive.