Greek Islands: 7 festivals you shouldn't miss in 2024

Are you a cinephile, a theater or a music lover? The Greek Islands have something for everyone! See the best cultural festivals and choose your favorite one. After all, where else will you find picturesque alleys, sandy beaches and festivals, all in one place?

See here the list of the top 7 festivals on the Greek islands and choose the one that suits you best:

1. Santorini Film Festival
2. International Animation Festival in Syros
3. Ifestia Festival in Santorini
4. World Music Festival in Tinos
5. Fistiki Festival in Aegina
6. "Psimeni Raki" Festival in Amorgos
7. International Film Festival in Kimolos

The imposing Town Hall of Syros in Miaoulis Square

1. Santorini Film Festival

Immerse yourself in the magic of cinema under the breathtaking Santorini sky at the Santorini Film Festival (SFF). Held from July 18th to 20th at the Kamari open-air cinema, SFF boasts a rich program of screenings and educational workshops. 

This unique festival celebrates Santorini's cinematic heritage while showcasing its stunning natural beauty. Prepare to be captivated by a diverse selection of short and feature films, documentaries, and works across various genres.

2. International Animation Festival in Syros

Next stop in Ermoupolis on the island of Syros, the majestic capital of the Cyclades! The International Animation Festival, Animasyros, is held in Syros every autumn. If you love animation, hop on the ferry to join the biggest festival of its kind in Greece (and one of the 20 most significant in Europe).

There, you will find educational workshops and of course screenings of animated films. The festival usually takes place in the impressive Apollo Theater with its red, velvet curtains and detailed murals, while events are also held in central Miaouli Square.

Enjoy free entrance to the festival, taking place from September 23rd to 29th, 2024. The focus of Animasyros 2024 entitled “Africa: An Animated Continent”, explores the thematic and cultural relationships between Africa and global animation.

Tip: ANIMASYROS 2024 will also host the prestigious Emile Awards ceremony! The Emile Awards, designed to celebrate and honor excellence in European animation, will be held on Monday, September 23rd at the Apollo Theater.

The picturesque Vaporia district in the center of Ermoupolis

3. Ifestia Festival in Santorini

Santorini is probably the most popular Greek island with its volcanic landscape, the impressive caldera with the whitewashed houses and the crimson sunset. But did you know about the Ifestia Festival, dedicated to the volcano eruption and held every September with a spectacular firework show?

A great celebration awaits you on the island with events and fireworks reenacting the famous Minoan Eruption (or the explosion of Thera).

The stunning village of Oia in Santorini

4. Tinos World Music Festival

The Tinos World Music Festival is a unique event held annually on the beautiful island of Tinos. This festival focuses on exploring the connections between the various manifestations of folk music culture and contemporary artistic creation.

This 3-year festival (2022-2024) is currently in its final edition. Each year features a specific theme, with 2024's theme being "Transformations III." Throughout the festival, attendees can enjoy a variety of events, including concerts and workshops.

Note: the exact dates for the 2024 edition haven't been officially announced yet, but in the past, the festival has usually taken place in early November.

The picturesque port and the impressive Chora of Tinos

5. Fistiki Festival in Aegina

Now, let’s sail towards the Argosaronic Sea, where Aegina awaits with a vibrant celebration of culture! Take the ferry from Piraeus to Aegina to find yourself in front of two-story neoclassical buildings, floating markets and an enchanting sunset in just 1 hour from Athens.

The Aegina Fistiki Fest trade fair is usually held in September at the port of Aegina. There, you can tantalize your taste buds with delicious pistachio praline, ice cream, spoon sweets, and pasteli made from the famous Aegina pistachio.

Tip: looking to extend your adventure? Aegina offers more than just culinary delights. Explore the artistic corners that unfold right from the port, or extend your stay and discover the enchanting hiking trails of Aegina.

The beautiful port of Spetses at sunset

6. "Psimeni Raki" Festival in Amorgos

After all that exercise, some raki, local delicacies and dancing sound like the perfect reward, right? Our next stop hits the spot: Amorgos! The "Psimeni Raki" Festival is held every year on July 26 in the central square of Katapola.

Here, you'll witness the island's customs firsthand. Locals prepare the traditional drink “psimeni raki” for the guests, offering a glimpse into its production process. Join the locals for lively dancing and savor the delicious pasteli.

Tip: from 14 to 19 November 2024, Amorgos will hold the 15th International Short Film Festival with films from around the world. If you love cinema, mark this date on your calendar for your second visit to Amorgos 😛.

Stone-paved alleys in Chora of Amorgos

7. International Film Festival in Kimolos

Are you a cinephile? Then, off you go to Kimolos for the International Film Festival. Open-air cinema, starry sky and selected films that only a true cinephile can really appreciate. And the best part? All screenings are completely free of charge! Is there a better way to start your summer?😀

Tip: mark your calendars! The Kimolos International Film Festival takes place from June 24th to 28th, 2024.

Stunning panoramic views of Kimolos main town

If you were complaining about not having options when it comes to festivals, the Greek islands just proved you wrong! Choose your favorite festival and book your ferry tickets on Ferryhopper!

Tip: oops! We almost forgot to tell you about our application! Download the Ferryhopper App for free, book your tickets faster and track your ferry any time in real-time!