Nicosia’s journey towards becoming the European Capital of Culture 2030 is already in full swing, with the Nicosia International Festival 2024 playing a key role in this cultural renaissance. The city is actively fostering a deeper connection to its heritage through various events that celebrate traditional music, dance, and crafts. As part of these efforts, Nicosia is proud to support the inaugural Antama Festival, set to take place on September 28.
This event will transform the Nicosia Municipal Gardens into a lively hub of traditional Cypriot culture, running from 4 PM to midnight. Attendees will be immersed in the rich music, dance, and customs of Cyprus in a celebration designed to revive and preserve the island’s unique traditions.
Celebrating Cultural Heritage
The Antama Festival is the brainchild of a group of passionate young people dedicated to safeguarding Cyprus’ UNESCO-recognized cultural heritage. Their mission is to rekindle interest in Cyprus’ fading traditions and help locals reconnect with their cultural identity. “This festival offers a dynamic, hands-on experience where visitors can engage directly with traditional crafts, practices, and artistry,” explains the Nicosia 2030 team. Through a series of interactive workshops and live demonstrations, participants will gain a deeper understanding of Cypriot culture and its roots.
Music, Dance, and Tradition
Live performances by local youth music groups such as Kalesma, Maly, and Nomades will fill the gardens with the sounds of Cypriot and Mediterranean music. These groups will not only entertain but also inspire the audience to join in traditional dance. In addition, the festival will feature workshops focused on Cypriot dances and offer demonstrations of pithkiavli, a traditional wind instrument. Visitors can also witness the art of palouze-making, a popular Cypriot delicacy, and sample authentic local food and drinks from various stalls.
Antama Festival 2024: A Cultural Revival
The 1st Antama Festival aims to shine a spotlight on local music, dance, and crafts, offering an immersive cultural experience. Scheduled for September 28 at the Nicosia Municipal Gardens, this festival will run from 4 PM to 12 AM and promises to be an unforgettable celebration of Cypriot heritage.
For more information, visit https://www.klisto.com.cy.