As October approaches, it’s time to anticipate an exciting festival lineup that promises to keep the season alive with energy and culture. Beyond the typical Oktoberfest and Halloween celebrations, October is packed with diverse events catering to fans of music, literature, wine, cinema, and comics. This might just be the most culturally rich festival month of the year!
Limassol Wine Festival
September 28 – October 6
Limassol’s famous Wine Festival is set to return, celebrating the island’s proud wine-making tradition. Hosted in the scenic Municipal Gardens, the festival will offer a full week of entertainment. Attendees can enjoy traditional Cypriot music, theater performances, pottery workshops, shadow theater, and magic shows. And of course, there will be no shortage of wine, commandaria, and zivania to taste and purchase from local winemakers. A free bus service will operate over the weekend for those coming from other cities. Find out more on Facebook.
15th International Pharos Contemporary Music Festival
October 2 – 11
Launching the month’s festival schedule is the Pharos Contemporary Music Festival, taking place at The Shoe Factory in Nicosia. International musicians will perform in four diverse concerts, beginning with the renowned Talea Ensemble and followed by the SIGMA PROJECT saxophone quartet, Chinese-American pianist George X Fu, and the percussion duo MikeDrop. The festival will also feature lectures, workshops, and activities aimed at young music enthusiasts. Learn more at pharosartsfoundation.org.
15th Open House Festival of Dance House Lemesos
October 3 – 6
For dance lovers, this Limassol-based festival will present a variety of performances, discussions, and workshops across eight cultural venues. Focusing on contemporary choreography, the event promises to push artistic boundaries, exploring themes of transformation, truth, and mastery. It aims to bring dance closer to the public, while also enhancing Cyprus’ choreographic scene. Check details at dancehouse.com.cy.
Cyprus Rocks Festival
October 4 – 6
If classic rock is your passion, head to Protaras for the Cyprus Rocks Festival, featuring some of the UK’s best tribute acts. Performances will pay homage to iconic bands like AC/DC, Led Zeppelin, Fleetwood Mac, and The Beatles. The festival kicks off with a Welcome Party at Polyxenia Isaak on October 3 and concludes with a Farewell Party on October 8. Main events take place at Trinity Beach. Get tickets at ticketbox.com.cy.
Nicosia Book Fest
October 5 – 6
Book enthusiasts won’t want to miss the Nicosia Book Fest, returning to Acropolis Park. This year’s festival is a celebration of Latin American literature and culture. With over 65 events across four stages, the program includes book presentations, music, theater, and children’s activities like treasure hunts. Windcraft Band will perform a special tribute to Latin American music, while Havana Vitral will bring the sounds of Cuba to life. Explore more at nicosiabookfest.com.
Cyprus Comic Con
October 5 – 6
Pop culture fans can look forward to the annual Cyprus Comic Con. Packed with activities such as cosplay competitions, gaming tournaments, live performances, exhibitions, and a film festival, this year’s event promises to be bigger and better. Special international guests will also attend. A Medieval Quarter and a debut pro-wrestling event will add even more excitement. Visit cypruscomiccon.org for details.
Poetry MOVES International Festival
October 9 – 13
For those who appreciate the art of poetry, the second edition of the Poetry MOVES International Festival offers an interdisciplinary experience, blending poetry with photography, music, and visual arts. Highlights include piano and cello recitals, poetry readings, and a poetic jazz showcase. Various venues in Nicosia will host these cultural events. More info at poetry-moves-international-festival.com.
Ayia Napa Medieval Festival
October 12 – 19
Ayia Napa transforms into a medieval wonderland during its annual Medieval Festival. Bands and performers from all over Europe will parade through the town’s streets, dressed in elaborate medieval costumes. Expect fire artists, stilt-walking dragons, flag-waving performances, and folklore displays in Ayia Napa’s central square. Find out more on Facebook.
International Short Film Festival of Cyprus
October 12 – 18
For film aficionados, the International Short Film Festival of Cyprus offers a platform for innovative and experimental cinema. The 14th edition will showcase a wide selection of short films from local and international directors, including documentaries, animations, and fiction films. Screenings will take place at the Rialto Theatre in Limassol. Discover more at isffc.com.cy.
October brings a diverse array of festivals across Cyprus, promising something for everyone. Whether you’re into wine, music, literature, or cinema, this month is sure to be full of cultural treasures waiting to be explored.