January Festivals
Winter Cup: is held every January at Nicosia Race Club and is the only race of the year where it possible to place a wager. The course is 1,000-metres long and is a popular race for all thoroughbreds.
Agios Neofytos: the Agios Neofytos Monastery can be found in Paphos and was built in the latter part of the 12th century by a local writer, Neofytos. Every January, the monastery boasts a two-day traditional fair with food, crafts and live music on offer.
Presentation of Jesus to the Temple Fair: the Chrysorrogiatissa Monastery, which can be found close to Paphos, hosts a fair every February to remember when Jesus was presented to the temple as a baby. The fair sees live music, traditional food and a religious service.
Troodos International Ski Competition: Troodos boasts an annual international ski competition which attracts competitors and supporters from around the world.
April Festivals
Procession of St Lazarus: is held eight days before Greek Orthodox Easter, and is celebrated in the city of Larnaca in honour of its patron saint, St Lazarus. Festivities include street processions and religious services.
May Festivals
Europe Day: this is a celebration of the country joining the EU. Events include dancing, music and a special show at Larnaca’s seafront.
June Festivals
Children’s Festival: for 11 years, Ayia Napa has seen one day in June devoted to children. Young ones are given presents and street entertainers come out in full force, along with food stalls and live musicians.
Kataklysmos: celebrates the Festival of the Flood which sees the island take part in one giant water fight.
Limassol Beer Festival: offers locals and visitors the opportunity to sample a range of local and imported beers including KEO, Heineken, Amstel, Budweiser and Hoegaarden. DJs keep the crowds entertained with a selection of local and international music.
August Festivals
Limassol’s Wine Festival: Limassol is the wine-growing capital of Cyprus and every year, the annual grape harvest sees many wineries opening their doors to keen wine-tasters in order to share their results from months of hard work.
October Festivals
Cyprus Independence Day: this is an important day in the Cypriot calendar and sees most celebrations taking place in Nicosia. The public holiday begins with a military parade in the city centre and ends with a function at the city’s palace in the evening.
Kypria Festival: is one of the most important cultural events in Cyprus. Events include: ballet and opera performances and art exhibitions and concerts, all of which are hosted by local artists, with just a small international presence.
December Festivals
Christmas: is a serious holiday in Cyprus and a time for remembering Jesus and his birth. No businesses open during the festive period and many people travel across the island to visit relatives.
|