July is a month of excitement and celebration in Cyprus, teeming with festivals that bring life to villages and cities alike. From music and film to culture and culinary delights, there’s something for everyone. Here’s a look at the most anticipated festivals this July, curated by Eleni Philippou and Julia Stern.
Afrobanana Festival: July 4-7
Returning to the picturesque village of Lefkara for the second year, the Afrobanana Festival is set to take place from July 4-7. This four-day event will feature internationally renowned bands and DJs performing across three stages, offering genres like afro, funk, electro, jazz, Latin, techno, psych folk, house, and world music. The festival also includes art installations, workshops for all ages, a Forest School for children, ANIMAFEST screenings, and a grand closing celebration with a communal long table feast.
Website: Afrobanana Festival
Loud Music Festival: July 4-7
Simultaneously, the Loud Music Festival (LMF) will energize Limassol’s ETKO venue. With 50 talented DJs and artists, each day will spotlight different music genres. The festival kicks off with live performances, followed by RNB on the second day, EDM on the third, and wraps up with Old Skool hits from the 80s, 90s, and 00s.
Halloumi Festival in Drousia: July 5
Drousia village will host its third Halloumi Festival on July 5, celebrating Cyprus’ famous cheese. Held at the Elementary School stadium, visitors can enjoy various halloumi samples and live performances by singer Nikos Markopoulos.
Contact: 99 405691
Cyprus Rialto World Music Festival: July 6-19
The Cyprus Rialto World Music Festival returns for its 19th year with six outstanding concerts from July 6-19. Following the Rialto Residency in Platres, concerts will be held at Heroes Square in Limassol. Highlights include performances by Nama Dama, Terlikkas & Fuzz Buss, Michalis and Petros Kouloumis, Usurum, Greek pop star Marina Satti, and the collaboration Krúe.
Website: Cyprus Rialto World Music Festival
Platres Lavender Festival: July 7
On July 7, the charming village of Platres invites visitors to its annual Lavender Festival. Attendees can plant lavender, taste lavender-inspired dishes, and explore stalls selling lavender-based products. Forest Park Hotel, Platres Chocolate Workshop, Petit Palais Hotel, and Orosimo will offer special lavender treats like ice cream, chocolates, loukoumades, tea, and crepes.
Website: Platres Lavender Festival
10th Protaras Summer Film Festival: July 10-28
The Protaras Summer Film Festival will transform Lefkola Square into an open-air cinema from July 10-28. Featuring 25 blockbuster films, including international, Greek, and animated movies, this festival is perfect for cinephiles, tourists, and families.
Website: Protaras Summer Film Festival
Watermelon Festival: July 12
Frenaros village will celebrate its 15th Watermelon Festival on July 12. Known for its exceptional watermelons, the festival will feature various watermelon-based desserts, cocktails, and food. Musical performances by Stelios Dionysiou, Agne Kaloumenou, Filippos Ktenas, and Elena Andreou will entertain guests.
Website: Watermelon Festival
Windcraft Music Fest: July 13-14
Celebrating its 10th anniversary, the Windcraft Music Fest in Katydata will offer a blend of acoustic and electronic sounds, Balkan and techno brass performances. Free workshops on music, tsiattista, pithkiavli making, yoga sessions, village walks, and a literary corner will be available, providing a holistic experience.
Website: Windcraft Music Fest
27th Cultural Festival of the University of Cyprus: Until July 13
The Cultural Festival of the University of Cyprus continues to enrich Nicosia’s nightlife with performances of poetry, music, song, and theatre until July 13. Local and international artists will perform at Axiothea Mansion, including a concert by European Winds on July 2.
Website: Cultural Festival of the University of Cyprus
International Festival of Ancient Greek Drama: July 19-August 10
From July 19 to August 10, the International Festival of Ancient Greek Drama will present four contemporary interpretations of ancient Greek dramas by theatre companies from Romania and Greece. Performances will take place at the Ancient Odeon in Paphos, the Makarios III Amphitheatre in Nicosia, and the Curium Ancient Theatre in Limassol.
Website: Greek Drama Fest
MedFest – Limassol Beer Festival: July 23-27
The MedFest in Limassol will be held from July 23-27 at the My Mall Limassol parking lot. This beer festival will feature over 35 beer producers, street food vendors, and live music performances by prominent Cypriot and Greek artists.
Website: Med-Fest
July in Cyprus is bursting with cultural and entertainment options. Whether you’re a music lover, a foodie, or a film buff, there’s a festival waiting for you. Join in the celebrations and make the most of this vibrant month!
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