Of special color in the region are the religious events based on the various saints the area’s churches are named after. Particularly interesting are the religious events surrounding the week preceding Orthodox Easter, which takes place every year the week following Catholic Easter. In many villages lamb is roasted on a spit in the churchyard and the locals party into the night.

A synopsis of events

• In the village of Livadia you should attend the festivals put on by the area’s churches.
• On the evening of August 14, the monastery of Hrysoskalitissa celebrates with a feast.
• During the festival of birds in Elos and Agios Dikeos mountain, one can spot the rare endangered species of bird gypaetos.
• The evening in honor of the elders at the municipality of Elafonisi features Cretan music and dancing.
• The chestnut festivals are hosted in the village of Elos, a region known for its chestnut forest.
• In September ask the villa caretakers to take you with them to the grape harvest and pressing for production of the local wine.
• Early October you may stop in any village of the region to sample a drink of tsikoudia spirits straight from the cauldrons they are distilled in.

If you dare to test your endurance in basketball, there is a special municipal court in Livadia, next to the church, and, if you are even braver, you can ask Vasili to take you with him in his boat fishing!

Details on specific dates of events can be found in the books featured in each villa.