Culture
“Discover Kavala, the city of a thousand colors”
Archaeological Museum of Kavala
The Archaeological Museum of Kavala is one of Greece’s most significant museums, showcasing artifacts from Eastern Macedonia and Thrace. The exhibition starts from the Neolithic period with finds from the Dikili Tash settlement and includes the permanent exhibit “Neapolis – Christoupolis – Kavala”. A prominent feature of the museum is the goddess Parthenos, patron of Neapolis, with artifacts from her Ionic temple. Visitors can see architectural elements of the temple, sculptures, coins, vessels, and figurines dedicated to the goddess.
Mohammed Ali Museum
The House of Mehmet Ali in Kavala is a historic building constructed in the late 18th century. Located in the old town of Kavala, it is a characteristic example of Ottoman architecture. Today, the house operates as a museum, offering visitors a glimpse into the life and times of Mehmet Ali, a significant figure in the history of Egypt and the Ottoman Empire. It is one of the most important attractions in the area, drawing many tourists each year.
Archaeological Museum of Philippi
The Archaeological Museum of Philippi features two exhibition sections. Section A, covering 380 square meters, occupies the ground floor and presents artifacts from prehistoric times to the end of Roman antiquity. Section B, with an area of 205 square meters, is located on the upper floor and showcases the Christian city from the early Christian period until its final abandonment after the Turkish conquest in the 14th century.
Tobacco Museum
The Tobacco Museum in Kavala is a modern industrial and experiential thematic museum, rich in exhibits and archival material related to tobacco cultivation and production. It includes cultivation tools, commercial processing machines, photographic material, and rare documents. Its uniqueness lies in the presentation of the commercial processing of Eastern tobaccos and the highlighting of the economic and social history of the region. It is temporarily housed on the ground floor of the National Tobacco Organization’s industrial building, which was constructed between 1957 and 1962.
Naval Museum
The Naval Museum of Kavala is part of Greece’s network of naval museums and has been a full member of the International Council of Museums since 2008. The museum was established to highlight Kavala’s maritime history and tradition. During your visit, you can explore nautical and maritime objects, models of traditional ships, books on maritime topics, seascapes by Kavala artists, photographs of the port and naval activity, a traditional fishing boat from 1961, and a historical boat from 1932 used during the German-Bulgarian occupation.
Historical and Ethnological Museum of Nea Karvali
This museum was established to preserve and promote the history of Greeks in Cappadocia. Its collections feature significant archaeological finds and everyday objects. Of particular interest are ancient newspapers, magazines, and schoolbooks written in Karamanlidika (Turkish language with Greek script). Additionally, the museum houses a rare collection of books from the 14th, 15th, 18th, and 19th centuries.
Wax Museum
Discover the unique experience of meeting iconic figures from Greece and abroad as major figures in art, politics, and entertainment come together in a magical setting. Odysseas Elytis and Yiannis Tsarouchis meet Maria Callas and Mimis Plessas, while Aliki Vougiouklaki and Jenny Karezi, along with politicians Andreas Papandreou and Konstantinos Karamanlis, coexist with international personalities like Michael Jackson and Madonna. This unique encounter of great creators and leaders creates an atmosphere blending art, energy, and history, offering an unparalleled experience.
Oil and Olive Museum
The Oil and Olive Museum in Elaiochori, Kavala, is the only museum of its kind in Eastern Macedonia and Thrace, spanning three acres. The modern exhibition space includes an event hall, an open-air theater, and a landscaped area providing a pleasant visit. Of particular interest is the restored olive press, which revives traditional olive processing. Through its collection and displays, the museum preserves the rich agricultural and industrial heritage of the region.
Museum of Refugee Hellenism
This museum was lovingly and meticulously created by descendants of second- and third-generation refugees who were forcibly displaced from their homelands in the East and settled in their new homeland, Greece. Bringing with them their history, culture, and values, the refugees left a significant mark on their new land. Ninety years later, the Asia Minor Association of Kavala “Memory of Asia Minor” collected relics, and the “Museum of Refugee Hellenism” was established as a tribute to those who suffered and struggled to preserve their heritage.
Christmas in Kavala
The annual cultural event in Kavala started in 1999 and lasts for about a month every December. Its purpose is to offer free cultural events for all age groups during the Christmas holidays. The event includes many activities and takes place in various public spaces within the municipal unit of Kavala. Funding comes from the Municipality of Kavala, which organizes it, as well as from revenues from renting out spaces and properties used for commercial purposes in Eleftheria Square and other areas of Kavala.
Alphabet Parade
The Alphabet Parade has been held in Kavala since 2006 and is a striking and unique cultural event that takes place before Clean Monday, as a prelude to the Carnival celebrations. During the parade, school children, accompanied by parents and teachers, dressed in original costumes made from materials like cardboard, wire, and fabric, which represent various letters of the alphabet, stroll through the city center, thrilling spectators. The event creates a delightful atmosphere filled with color, music, and creativity.
Staging of a Pontian Wedding
The event, held continuously since 1976 on the feast day of Apostle Thomas, takes place in the central square of Zygos in Kavala. It is the highlight of the activities organized by the Pontiac Association of the village. The aim of the event is to revive the customs and traditions of the Pontic wedding, offering traditional dishes such as “keskek” and “pisia”, while also providing entertainment and enjoyment for both residents and visitors. Additionally, a performance featuring traditional music and instruments is organized, with participation from musical and dance groups of the Pontic Association of Zygos “Ypsilantis” and other local associations.
Eleftheria
Every year, the Municipality of Kavala organizes a series of cultural events titled “Eleftheria” to celebrate the city’s liberation from Bulgarian forces during the Balkan Wars on June 26, 1913. These events primarily take place in the second half of June and culminate with the feast of Kavala’s patron saint, the Apostle Paul, on June 29. The festivities include theatrical performances, musical events, visual arts exhibitions, folk dances, and other activities held at venues such as the Fortress and Liberty Square. Visitors have the opportunity to explore and appreciate the local history through these artistic events.
White Night in Kavala
White Night in Kavala is a lively annual event held every May and organized by the Kavala Commercial Association. During the event, the market stays open until midnight, offering visitors the opportunity to explore shops and special deals. The program includes dozens of activities for both young and old, such as dances, music performances, and exhibitions, blending entertainment with commercial promotion. With its wide range of activities, White Night boosts shopping activity and provides an enjoyable evening for all participants.
Perameia
The Perameia, held in Nea Peramos every July for ten days, is an event offering a rich program of cultural activities. It includes musical and dance performances featuring both traditional and contemporary elements, as well as theatrical performances covering a variety of themes. Additionally, art exhibitions by local creators are organized, providing an opportunity to showcase the cultural heritage and creativity of the area. The festival attracts visitors from various regions, contributing to the vibrancy and development of the local community.
Potato Festival
This festival takes place on the first Sunday of September to highlight the local product of the area, the Lekani potato, renowned for its delicious taste. During the event, the village women and members of the “The Roots” association prepare the potato in various ways, while simultaneously showcasing Pontic customs and traditions through dance performances by the association’s dance groups. Traditional Pontic dishes are offered, and the program concludes with a rich selection of Pontic and folk music performed by local artists. The event is organized by the Lekani Cultural Association “The Roots.”
Tsipouro Festival in Nea Peramos
This event, held since 2003 on the seaside pedestrian street of Nea Peramos, takes place from late October to early November. Its aim is to promote the local product and the natural wealth of the area. Visitors have the chance to see the tsipouro production process up close and taste it with accompanying appetizers such as sardines, olives, and pickles. Even though the summer season has ended, its flavors continue to offer enjoyment.
Chestnut Festival in Paliochori
This event takes place in the chestnut forest of Paliochori on the last Sunday of October or the first Sunday of November, with the aim of promoting the local product. During the festival, roasted and boiled chestnuts are offered, accompanied by wine and tsipouro. Visitors have the opportunity to collect chestnuts from the forest while enjoying the natural beauty of Mount Paggaio, which is preparing to welcome winter.
Mussels and Sardines Festival
The Mussels and Sardines Festival is a gastronomic event that highlights the exceptional quality of Keramoti mussels and sardines, accompanied by local tsipouro and ouzo. It takes place on the first weekend of June at the Keramoti port and lasts for two days. The festival features an amateur fishing competition, live music, traditional dances from local and international groups, and a rich array of delicacies for all visitors.
Livestock Festival
Every October, in the village of Platamonas, over 600 kilograms of goat meat are cooked into a delicious soup that is offered to all visitors. At the same time, a vibrant market is set up along the village streets, where one can find tasty local products such as berries, chestnuts, potatoes, and cheese. The festival takes place annually on the first Sunday of October.
Sarmas Festival
Every June, the Cultural Association of Nikisiani, “Arapis,” organizes the Sarmas Festival in the courtyard of the Church of Saint George. This event offers visitors the chance to taste traditional local food. Guests can enjoy “sarmadakia” (stuffed vine leaves), which are prepared free of charge by the ladies of Nikisiani. The festival is accompanied by live music, traditional songs, and dance groups.
Festival of Philippi
One of the biggest cultural events in Kavala is the Festival of Philippi, the second oldest festival in the country after the Epidaurus Festival. It began in September 1957 with a performance of Euripides’ “Electra” and is mainly held at the Ancient Theater of Philippi from July to August. Many of the festival’s events also take place at other locations in the city, such as the Fortress and other spots in Kavala. The festival attracts thousands of Greek and international visitors each year, offering classic ancient drama performances, contemporary theatrical works, concerts by major artists, dance ensembles, poetry nights, exhibitions, and many other parallel activities.
Cosmopolis Festival
Cosmopolis is an event organized by the Municipality of Kavala that began in 2000 and has evolved into a multifaceted festival centered around art and music. The festival attracts thousands of visitors of all ages to Kavala, highlighting its cultural significance both in Greece and abroad. It is a celebration that promotes acquaintance, mutual respect, and participation, aiming to enhance human uniqueness. The festival runs from May to December, providing a platform for all kinds of music and other creative arts. To date, it has hosted significant artists from around the world, including major names from the Greek and international scenes.
Wood Water Wild Festival
The Wood Water Wild Festival is an annual event celebrating music, sports, and outdoor activities, held at the beginning of summer amidst the enchanting natural setting of the Environmental Trail of Palia Kavala. The festival features concerts, running and cycling races, climbing, archery, zip-lining, children’s workshops, horseback riding, painting and photography exhibitions, and many other activities. Its purpose is to promote connection with nature through various activities and to advocate for an alternative lifestyle based on cooperation, solidarity, and social contribution. The festival embodies harmonious coexistence with the natural environment and fosters volunteerism and social awareness.
