Festivals

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.