Panigiri -πανηγύρι

What Is a Panigiri?

• A religious feast day, usually tied to a saint’s celebration.

• Held in a church courtyard or village square.

• Locals cook large amounts of traditional food (e.g. revithada, lamb, loukoumades).

• Live folk music (violin, lute, bagpipes), dancing in circles, and wine until dawn.

Famous Panigiria in the Cyclades:

 Sifnos

• Panigiri of Prophet Elias (July 19–20)

  • Pilgrimage to remote chapels on mountaintops.

  • Revithada and wine shared communally.

• Festival of Panagia tou Vounou (August 15)

  • One of the biggest; music and food under the stars.

Paros

• Panagia Ekatontapiliani (August 15, Parikia)

  • The most important celebration on the island.

  • Fireworks, concerts, and a massive public feast.

Naxos

• Panagia Filotitissa (August 15, in Filoti village)

  • Epic food and dancing in the largest mountain village.

• Dionysia Festival (Summer, Naxos town)

  • Cultural spin-off with music, theater, and wine — honoring Dionysus, god of wine.

Amorgos

• Panigiri of Agia Paraskevi (July 26, Kato Meria)

  • Feasting with local goat stew and live music.

Ios

• Panagia Gremiotissa (August 15)

  • Iconic festival in Chora; lively dancing and fireworks.

Insider Tips:

• Most panigiria are free and open to all — just show up.

• Come hungry and ready to dance with strangers.

• Dress modestly if attending the religious part (church service).

• Many require a hike or boat ride to remote chapels.