Situated between three separate continents, Cyprus has a unique blend of cultures, so there’s plenty to celebrate all year round. Whether you’re staying in one of the many villas that Cyprus has to offer during early spring or late summer, there will be a festival or party happening somewhere on the island.
January – March
The Epiphany Celebration is held on January 6th and in coastal towns all over the ideal, priests throw the Holy Cross into the sea, before men dive in to retrieve it – rather them than me! The Limmasol Carnival is an 11 day festival in Lemesos and Pafos, held two weeks before the Greek Orthodox Lenten period. The entrance parade and Grand Carnival Parade are the two spectacles not to be missed but there are parties held for the entire carnival.
There are three major events throughout March: Spring Historic Car Rally, Cyprus Film Days and Fashion Week. The latter being one of the highlights of the entire calendar.
April – June
Music is the flavour of the month in April, with the Berengaria International Music Festival in Lemesos and the Ledra Music Soloists International Festival in Nicosia. The Antheatiria Flower Festival is held in Larnaka, Lemesos and Pafos in May. You’ll find flower markets and exhibitions, and a final parade. At the end of the month, the Aphrodite classic car rally races take place across the island.
The Theotro Ena in Nicosia hosts the Images and Views of Alternative Cinema, where you’ll be able to watch all sorts of experimental films. Also occurring during this month is the Shakespeare Festival so drop in to the Curium to see a play by the Bard.
July – September
It’ll come as no surprise that there’s a festival to celebrate Ancient Greek Drama, so drop into the amphitheatre for an epic performance. Head to the Municipal Gardens in Lemesos for casks of free wine and food; while over in Pafos, the Aphrodite Festival offers three days of opera. Kypria is a multi-arts festival and one of Cyprus’ most important events, but if you miss that the Urban Soul Festival is also great fun.
October – December
October 1st is Independence Day in Cyprus, so expect huge military parades in the capital – it’s quite something!
The Cypriot landscape provides the perfect setting for the Forest Park Rally if you happen to be in town in late November and last, but not least, if you’re on holiday for New Year then head to Nicosia to be part of the celebrations.
