24 Top Events and Festivals in Crete You Shouldn’t Miss

When on a holiday in Crete, one is guaranteed to be in for a treat. Other than gorgeous beaches, ancient palaces, historical sites, and friendly locals, Crete is home to several fun events you should experience at least once in your life. Many people from around the world travel to participate in these events, proving just how popular and significant they are.

If you’re planning to visit Crete, knowing the top events being held in the island is essential. Doing so will help you plan your trip accordingly, ensuring a smooth vacation. Fortunately, we have listed here the top events in Crete that you shouldn’t miss out on.

From religious events that honour the patron saints of Crete to historical and traditional festivals that showcase the beautiful Cretan culture, Crete is home to various festivals guaranteed to give you a good time. Plus, the summer events in large cities such as Heraklion, Chania, and Rethymnon aren’t to be missed too. Whatever your preference may be, you’ll find a festival in Crete that will suit your taste.

Listed below are the 24 top events and festivals in Crete.

Easter in Crete. Easter in Crete is a deeply rooted and festive occasion that spans beyond a single day. It involves a 40-day fast, contemplative Holy Week, and authentic village celebrations with homemade food and traditional customs.
The Feast of Agios Georgios. The Feast of Agios Georgios is a significant celebration in Crete honoring Saint George, a revered saint in various Christian denominations. It takes place on April 23rd and involves large events and fairs held across the island to seek the blessings of the saint.
The Feast of St John the Baptist. The Feast of St. John the Baptist is a special celebration in Crete that takes place on June 24th. It is known as Ioannis Prodromos in Greek. This feast day is highly cherished in Western Crete and is marked with great care and enthusiasm. It is one of the most popular events in the region, with numerous feasts and fairs held in honor of St. John the Baptist.
The Feast for Saint Titus. The Feast for Saint Titus is a grand celebration held in Heraklion Town on August 25th. Saint Titus, who was the first bishop of Crete, is revered as the protector of the island. This feast day is dedicated to honoring his legacy and contributions.
The Feast of the Dormition of the Virgin Mary. The Feast of the Dormition of the Virgin Mary, also known as the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, is a significant religious observance in Crete. It is celebrated on August 15th and holds great importance in the Greek Orthodox Church. This feast commemorates the belief that the Virgin Mary, after her death, was taken up into heaven both in body and soul.
Agios Nikolaos Nameday. Agios Nikolaos Nameday is a large ceremony held on December 6th in honor of Agios Nikolaos, the patron saint of the town. It features a spectacular ambiance with lit-up boats and a fireworks show.
Summer Festivals. Summer festivals in Crete offer a vibrant celebration of music, dance, theater, and local traditions. From the Chania Summer Festival to wine festivals and art events, there’s something for everyone to enjoy during the summer months on the island.
The Battle of Crete. The Battle of Crete festival is a commemoration of the historic WWII battle that took place in Chania. It includes sports competitions, ceremonial activities, and folk dancing to ensure the younger generations remember this significant event in May near Maleme.
Rethymnon’s Carnival. A lively festival celebrated in February or March, featuring a colorful parade with costumes, floats, and live music. The parade is the highlight of the Carnival.
The Renaissance Festival. A two-week festival in July, showcasing theatrical and dance events, music concerts, art galleries, and other cultural activities at the Erofili theater in the Fortress and the Neratzes Mosque in Rethymno.
The Hyakinthia. It is a three-day festival in July in the village of Anogia. It is honoring the Saint of Love with feasts, festivals, and events based on Cretan history, music, and legacy.
Chania Rock Festival. It is held in the first half of August. Chania Rock Festival brings together Greek and international rock performers, up-and-coming artists, and bands for a memorable music experience in Chania’s old city.
The Kazani – Raki Distilling. Kazani or Kazanemata is held yearly between October and December. It is held in various locations throughout Crete and commemorates the traditional process of turning grape-must into raki.
Lato Festival. Lato Festival is taking place yearly in July and August in Agios Nikolaos. It is a cultural fiesta that presents local concerts, foreign musicians, traditional mantinades contests, dance performances, art exhibits, and theater productions.
The Cretan Diet Festival. The Cretan Diet Festival is a celebration of Cretan cuisine and healthy eating habits. It presents cooking demonstrations, tastings, and educational activities promoting the traditional Cretan diet.
Wine Festival. Wine festivals are help in various locations, including Rethymno’s National City Park and Kastelli village. These festivals offer the opportunity to taste the best local wines, enjoy folk music, and participate in traditional Cretan dances.
Houdetsi Music Festival. A notable music festival held in the village of Houdetsi, featuring a diverse range of music genres, workshops, and performances by local and international artists.
Matala Beach Festival. It is a popular music festival held on the famous Matala Beach, featuring live performances by Greek and international musicians, creating a vibrant atmosphere by the sea. This is the most popular festival in Crete.
Kakavia Festival. Kakavia Festival is celebrated in various seaside villages like Sissi and Milatos. It pays tribute to the traditional Greek fish soup, kakavia, with cooking competitions, tastings, and cultural events.
Thrapsano Pottery Festival. Thrapsano Pottery Festival is held yearly in the village of Thrapsano. It showcases the rich pottery tradition of Crete, with exhibitions, workshops, and demonstrations by local potters.
Eftazymo Festival. It is a festival dedicated to bread and traditional baking methods, featuring bread-making workshops, tastings, and cultural activities promoting the importance of bread in Cretan culture.
International Sculpture Symposium. International Sculpture Symposium is a gathering of renowned sculptors from around the world, creating and exhibiting their works in various locations in Crete, showcasing the art of sculpture.
Heraklion Summer Art Festival. Heraklion Summer Art Festival is held in Heraklion and festival offers a variety of theatrical performances, music concerts, dance shows, and visual arts exhibitions at the Nikos Kazantzakis and Manos Hatzidakis theaters.
Festival of Analipsi. Festival of Analips is A local festival in the village of Analipsi, featuring traditional music, dance performances, and cultural events that showcase the heritage and traditions of the region.

What are the religious Events in Crete?

Crete is a land rich in religious traditions and customs, where various religious events are celebrated throughout the year. These events hold great significance for the local communities and offer a glimpse into the deep-rooted spirituality of the island. From the grand Easter celebrations that unite both Orthodox and Catholic communities to the commemoration of the patron saint of towns like Agios Nikolaos, religious events in Crete are a blend of faith, culture, and tradition. These events bring people together to honor their beliefs, participate in religious rituals, and partake in feasts and festivities that showcase the unique religious heritage of Crete.

1. Easter in Crete

Easter is one of the most important religious festivals in Crete, and it is usually celebrated in April by both Orthodox and Catholics. During the Holy Week, a number of rites are performed, and on Saturday, the Resurrection is celebrated paired with beautiful fireworks. During Easter Sunday and Monday, everyone feasts on roasted lamb and local drinks. Many towns in Crete have their own way of celebrating Easter, so make sure to check out the schedule of events in advance.

The social club of Mothiana-Skiafotou also commemorates Easter by inviting all inhabitants to the Table of Love, where everyone enjoys a large feast with red eggs, Easter dishes, and, of course, roasted lamb while listening to Cretan music in Glossa, Kolymbari.

Don’t miss out on the Agios Nikolaos area during Easter Sunday night and assemble around the lake with residents carrying candles to observe the burning of Judas. The same custom is followed in Rethymno, where traditional red eggs, kalitsounia, Easter tsoureki, and a wide variety of traditional meals are served. In Toplou Monastery, the Resurrection of Christ is also celebrated with great devotion. The orange festival in Skines, Chania, takes place on the second and third days of Easter, featuring traditional dances and singing. Someone should read Easter in Crete: Traditions, Celebrations and Food.

2. The Feast of Agios Georgios

Saint George (Agios Georgios) is among Crete’s most revered saints. Agios Georgios is venerated as a saint by the Anglican, Orthodox, Catholic, Lutheran, and Armenian churches. Saint George’s Day is commemorated in Crete on April 23rd, and many areas of the island hold large events and fairs in his honour, with the goal of assuring the Saint’s blessings.

In Greece, Saint George is revered as the guardian of the army and soldiers. The most recognised among all the folk tales about Saint George that have come down through the decades is the one in which the Saint kills the dragon in order to save a princess.

3. The Feast of St John the Baptist

On June 24, the day of Saint John the Baptist, known as Ioannis Prodromos in Greek, is celebrated all over Crete with special care. The feast day of St. John the Baptist is one of the most popular events in Western Crete, with many feasts and fairs being held in his honour. People can come together and enjoy traditional Cretan music and dance, as well as local food and drink.

4. The Feast for Saint Titus

On August 25th, Heraklion Town hosts a great feast honouring Saint Titus. Saint Titus was Crete’s first bishop and is considered as the island’s protector. People often hold religious ceremonies in front of his tomb, and offer traditional food and sweets as a sign of their gratitude.

5. The Feast of the Dormition of the Virgin Mary

Every year on August 15, Crete celebrates the Feast of the Dormition of the Virgin Mary, one of Orthodox Christianity’s most holy days, in a variety of ways.

This popular Greek public holiday is also known as “Summer Easter”, and people commemorate it by attending religious services, hosting a party, and even organising sailboat races.

Every region of Crete has a narrative about the Virgin Mary (known in Greek as “the Panagia”)and every city on the island celebrates Her on August 15th.

6. Agios Nikolaos Nameday

The patron saint of the town, Agios Nikolaos, who is also known as the protector of mariners, is honoured with a large ceremony on December 6th. Prepare to be enchanted by the spectacular ambiance created by the small boats that float down the shore, all lit up. You’ll be amazed with the firework show that ends the festivities.

What are the cultural events in Crete?

Crete showcases rich heritage and traditions. From folklore nights that bring ancient myths and legends to life, to music festivals that celebrate Cretan music and international performances, cultural events in Crete offer a diverse range of experiences. These cultural events provide a platform for artists, musicians, and performers to showcase their talents, while also giving locals and visitors alike the opportunity to immerse themselves in the unique cultural tapestry of Crete.

7. Summer Festivals

All through the summer, the island hosts a number of religious and cultural festivities. From May through September, experience a variety of performances, folklore music, dances, exhibits, plays, and fairs at the Chania Summer Festival. The event takes place at the Old Harbour as well as the old and modern city of Chania. Listed below are the most popular summer festivals in Crete dedicated to local products.

The Potato Festival – Tzermiado on the Lasithi plateau
The Pottery Festival – Thrapsano, Heraklion
The Wine Festival – Dafnes, Heraklion
The Citrus Fruits Festival – Garazo, Mylopotamos
Cheeses Festival – Zoniana

Summer festivals are also popular in Heraklion, with a variety of theatrical, music, dancing, and visual arts events and exhibitions held at the Nikos Kazantzakis and Manos Hatzidakis theatres. Other notable summer events include wine festivals held at the end of July in Rethymno’s National City Park and in Kastelli village at the beginning of August, which welcome guests to sample the best local produce while enjoying wine, folk songs, and Cretan dances.

8. The Battle of Crete

One of the most important events in Chania is the remembrance of the Battle of Crete during WWII, which includes sports competitions, ceremonial activities, and folk dancing. This celebration occurs in May near Maleme, near Chania, where the first fight took place. Many of the events are organised by veterans and their families to ensure that the younger generations do not forget this day.

9. Rethymnon’s Carnival

Carnival is a large festival that is celebrated all over the world, but Rethymnon takes it to the next level. This festival occurs every year in February or March and includes a parade of people in costumes, floats, and live music. It’s a fun event for the whole family, and it’s a great way to experience the local culture.

10. The Renaissance Festival

Rethymno’s Renaissance festival lasts up to two weeks and takes place in July, with theatrical and dance events, music concerts, art galleries, visual arts, and other events taking place at the Erofili theater in the Fortress, as well as the Neratzes Mosque. It’s ideal for those who love the arts, and it’s a fun way to learn about the history of the city.

11. The Hyakinthia

An established festival that’s held for three days in July in the village of Anogia on the foothills of Psiloritis. With feasts and festivals, the occasion commemorates the Saint of Love or Agios Hyakinthos. Every year, a new theme is created for this event, all of which are based on Cretan history, music, and legacy.

12. Chania Rock Festival

During the first half of August, a distinct type of event occurs in Chania’s old city, gathering rock music fans from all across Greece. The Chania Rock Festival brings together a diverse range of Greek and international performers, up-and-coming artists, and rock bands to give the summer a solid send-off with great music.

What other festivals are held in Crete?

Crete offers a diverse range of festivals that cater to different interests and passions. These festivals provide a unique opportunity to experience the local culture, traditions, and flavors of the island, making them a must-visit for those seeking an authentic and immersive experience in Crete.

13. The Kazani – Raki Distilling

Between the months of October and December, the traditional drink of Crete is widely celebrated. The process of turning grape-must into raki, known as raki distillation, has become a religious ceremony for the natives. The Raki Distilling Festival is held in the Kazania region, around the stills, and is followed by a feast featuring traditional products, Cretan delicacies, local wine, and, of course, fresh raki.

14. Lato Festival

In the months of July and August, the town of Agios Nikolaos hosts the Lato Cultural Festival. It’s a fantastic fair with local concerts, foreign musicians, traditional mantinades contests, dance performances, art exhibits, and theatre productions. You’re in for a treat if you visit during this time!

15. The Cretan Diet Festival

During the first week of July, the Cretan Diet festival takes place in Rethymno, showcasing all locally produced items while honouring Cretan cuisine and the famed Mediterranean diet. Food lovers can enjoy traditional dishes, cooking demonstrations, and even a “Cretan diet” seminar.

16. Wine Festival

Many villages in Crete host wine festivals every summer. The wine festival in Anogia is particularly popular since the area is well-known for its excellent wines. The festival features folk music and dancing, as well as wine tastings. From grape-based spirits to red and white wines, there’s something for everyone at this event.

17. Houdetsi Music Festival

Every year in the month of August, the Houdetsi festival takes place in the village of Houdetsi, which is about 23 kilometres from Heraklion. It is a one-of-a-kind festival that combines music from all over the world with Cretan culture. Music lovers will enjoy the diverse range of genres represented at this event, including classical, rock, jazz, and more. There are also workshops where you can learn about traditional Cretan instruments.

What are the best Fun Festivals in Heraklion?

In Heraklion, there are several fun festivals that offer a delightful blend of music, art, and cultural experiences. These festivals bring the city to life, attracting locals and tourists alike to celebrate and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.

18. Matala Beach Festival

This incredible beach and summer festival, which has been held in Crete since 2011, transforms the hippie village into a massive flower-power revival feast that pays homage to the 60s and 70s and the iconic past of Matala. The region’s culture, and its caves, as well as literature, creative writing, street art, painting, music, and more are all celebrated during this festival. The joyful celebration takes place over the weekend, with music, crafts, and art filling the streets.

19. Kakavia Festival

A popular event commemorating Kakavia, a traditional fish soup enjoyed all throughout Crete, hosted on the southern shore of Heraklion. This is a great chance to try kakavia, which is very popular on the island.

This Heraklion celebration includes plenty of this delectable cuisine, as well as dancing and music performed by local bands. In case you were curious, the village’s name translates to “Three Churches” and relates to the three churches in the settlement: Agios Georgios, Metamorfosi Sotira, and Panagia.

20. Thrapsano Pottery Festival

Visit the Thrapsano Pottery School, a historic pottery village where you can take in the sights of Heraklion. The party normally lasts two days (usually in the middle of July). The festival aims to recognize local potters who have been carrying on the ancestral pottery legacy in Crete since the Minoan era! The festival concludes each night with food, drinks, and a variety of musical performances.

21. Eftazymo Festival

The festival takes place in Kastamonitsa, a village some 40 kilometres from the capital, near Kasteli village. This one-of-a-kind celebration honours eftazymo bread, a local specialty and the region’s most traditional bread.The local ovens prepare thousands of loaves in the days preceding up to the festival, which are shared and eaten by the guests during the festivities.

22. International Sculpture Symposium

The International Sculpture Symposium is a month-long festival that features a massive outdoor sculpture exhibition of human forms carved of Cretan limestone that appear to erupt from the earth.

The festival, which takes place every two years in Venerato, attracts sculptors from all over Europe to take part in this unique event, which is free and available to the public to visit, observe, and enjoy.

23. Heraklion Summer Art Festival

Combining art and music, the Heraklion Summer Art Festival is a great way to experience the fun culture of Crete. During this event, both traditional and modern songs are played throughout the region. Live bands, offering acoustic chill nights can be spotted in many taverns. People from all over Crete gather to experience this summer festival. Beaches are lit up, the locals are more welcoming and taverns even offer free drinks. No matter what type of traveller you are, spending time in Heraklion during the summer art festival is truly a magical experience.

24. Festival of Analipsi

Another event you shouldn’t miss when visiting Crete is the festival of Analipsi. The feast is celebrated all throughout the region and many gather at the beach to give various offerings to the Gods. It is a 7 days event that takes place in June. People from all over Crete travel to experience this event first hand. You can expect to find all kinds of Cretan dishes here, too. From the famous souvlaki to the tasty mezedes, you will never run out of food options in Analipsi.

How to get to the festivals of Crete?

To get to the festivals in Crete, there are a few options available. These are by public local transportation, by taxi and by car rental. Firstly, public transportation is challenging as most festivals take place during the night and buses stop after a specific time (usually at midnight). An alternative return option should be taken into consideration. Secondly, taking a taxi is an option but it could be costly depending the travellers initial location. Taxis in Crete can be quite costly, especially for long-distance travel. The prices vary depending on the distance and location. However, it is important to note that taxis are generally recommended if you don’t plan to spend much time exploring Crete. Lastly, a Crete car rental is the most convenient way to get to Crete’s festivals and events. The average cost of renting an economy car in Crete is around €30 to €40 per day. This type of car is compact and fuel-efficient, making it suitable for navigating the narrow roads of Crete.

How much do compact and mid-sized car rentals cost in Crete?

Listed below find the average cost of renting a compact and medium-sized car in Crete:

Compact Cars: The average cost of renting a compact car in Crete is around €40 to €50 per day. Compact cars offer a balance between size and fuel efficiency, making them a popular choice for exploring the island. Compact car models in Crete are considered models with 5 doors, 4 or 5 seats, able to comfortably travel for a family of 4. Car models listed as Compact cars in Crete are Toyota Yaris, Volkswagen Polo, Nissan Micra, Renault Clio, Citroen C3 and Peugeot 208.
Mid-sized Cars: The average cost of renting a midsize car in Crete is around €50 to €60 per day. Midsize cars provide more space and comfort compared to compact cars, making them suitable for longer journeys or traveling with a larger group or a family of 5. Car models listed as Mid-sized cars in Crete are Volkswagen Golf, Toyota Corolla, Fiat Tipo, Kia Stonic, Seat Arona and Skoda Kamiq.

It is important to note that the effective cost may vary depending on factors such as the rental company, duration of rental, and the time of year. It is recommended to contact Crete Car Rental for specific pricing information and availability.

Do Rental Cars in Crete have Insurance?

Yes, rental cars typically include insurance coverage. The purpose of rental car insurance is to secure the renter and the rental vehicle in the event of an accident, damage or theft. The particular insurance coverage provided varies based on the rental company and the form of insurance selected. A Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) or Loss Damage Waiver (LDW) is a common form of coverage that reduces the renter’s financial liability for damage to the rental vehicle.

Liability insurance is another essential coverage that protects against damage to other people’s property or injuries to third parties if the renter causes an accident. Personal Accident Insurance (PAI) for medical cost and accidental casualty benefits, as well as coverage for personal things in the rental vehicle, are all available as supplementary insurance options.

It is essential that renters review the insurance coverage offered by the rental company, understand any restriction or exclusions and consider their own insurance options to ensure appropriate coverage during the rental period. Drivers are able to make decisions regarding their car rental insurance coverage by thoroughly reading the rental terms and discussing any questions or concerns with the rental company.

Last updated on November 7th, 2024