As summer unfolds, Cypriot villages are bustling with life, welcoming both locals and tourists to experience the island’s rich traditions and flavors. This week, and in the upcoming weeks, rural communities are hosting vibrant festivals filled with music, food, and cultural performances for everyone to enjoy.
Musical Nights in Villages
This Wednesday, two picturesque villages will come alive with the sounds of rembetiko and folk music. In Tembria village, the ensemble Epea Pteroenta will perform a lively selection of songs at 9:30 PM in the village square. The performance, featuring special guest Christos Petro, promises to lift spirits and is open to all, free of charge.
Meanwhile, Spilia village will also host a musical evening. The group Rembetiki Fatrias will present a Greek music set titled “Ta Tragoudia tis Pareas,” starting at 9:00 PM at the Spilia Cultural Centre. This event, like the one in Tembria, is free for everyone to attend.
Rural Festivals Revive Tradition
This week also marks the return of two long-standing rural festivals. After a 30-year hiatus, the Dionysia Grape Festival is back in Lania village on August 16. Held in the village’s Community Park, the festival will feature a live performance by the Valea music ensemble, traditional Cypriot dancing, and satire, along with an abundance of wine and food.
The 42nd Lefkara Festival is another highlight, continuing throughout the week until Sunday, with an additional day on August 24. This annual event showcases Cypriot culture through live performances, exhibitions, and more, breathing new life into the historic village of Lefkara.
Event Details
Rembetiko-Folk Night
Live performance by Epea Pteroenta. August 14. Tembria village square, Nicosia district. 9:30 PM. Free. Tel: 99-110066, 99-750359
Ta Tragoudia tis Pareas
Live music by Rembetiki Fatrias. August 14. Spilia Cultural Centre, Nicosia district. 9:00 PM. Free. Tel: 99-890672
Dionysia Grape Festival
Festival with live performances and wine. August 16. Lania village, Limassol district. 8:30 PM. €20 with food. Tel: 99-551521, 25-432333
42nd Lefkara Festival
Annual festival with performances, exhibitions, and more. Until August 17 and on 24. Lefkara village, Larnaca district. www.lefkara.org.cy