Holidays and Feasts in Crete: What You Need to Know

In Crete, people celebrate both national and religious holidays. These celebrations can change the opening hours of shops, markets, banks, and government offices. During important holidays like Easter and Christmas, even in tourist areas like Pitsidia, some places may close or have shorter hours.

• January 1st – New Year: They eat a special cake (Vasilopita) with a hidden coin.
• January 6th – Holiday Epiphany: Often includes the religious ceremony of throwing crosses into the sea (like in Matala).
• March 25th – Independence Day: Marks the start of the War of Independence against the Ottomans in 1821.
• May 1st – Labor Day
• August 15th – Feast of the Immaculate Conception
• October 28th – Ochi Day: Day of refusal to submit to Italy in 1940.
• December 6th – St. Nicholas Day: This holiday has church services and parties.
• December 25th – Christmas Day
• December 26th – Christmas Day: Veneration of the Mother of God.

• February 23rd, 2026 – Kathera Deftera (Clean Monday): Start of Lent for Orthodox Christians.
• April 10th, 2026 – Good Friday: Based on the Julian calendar.
• April 12th, 2026 – Easter Sunday: Tradition includes red-colored eggs, symbolizing the blood of Christ.
• April 13th, 2026 – Easter Monday
• May 31st, 2026 – Pentecost Sunday
• June 1st, 2026 – Pentecost Monday

The tradition of Vasilopita takes place on New Year’s Day in Greece. Vasilopita is a special cake made to celebrate St. Basil’s Day.

A coin is hidden inside the cake. When the cake is cut, each person gets a piece. The person who finds the coin is said to have good luck for the year.

Families often gather to enjoy this cake together. They may also have a special prayer before cutting the cake. This tradition brings joy and hope for the new year.

Enjoying Vasilopita is a lovely way to start the year in Greece!

On January 6, people in Greece, including Matala, throw a cross into the sea. This is called “Theophany” or “Epiphany.” It celebrates the baptism of Jesus.

The priest throws the cross into the water three times. Then, many people dive in to get it. This shows the blessing of the water and the joy of Jesus.

In coastal towns, people celebrate this event with joy. They come together to watch and join in.

If you are in Matala on this day, go to see this lovely tradition!

On August 15, Greeks celebrate a holiday called the Assumption of Mary.

The people at the Odigitrias Monastery in Crete fast for two weeks before this day to honor the Virgin Mary.

On August 15, there is a big church service at the monastery, followed by a supper. Each monastery has its own way of celebrating.

This day is very special for the people as they celebrate their faith and the Virgin Mary.

Join the church service!

Music and dance are very important at Cretan feasts. Traditional Cretan music is played with instruments like the lute and lyra. People love to dance together to folk dances like Syrtaki and Pentozali.

Festivals bring families and neighbors together. It is common for people to celebrate with food and drinks. Many parties happen outside, making it a fun and friendly atmosphere.

At festivals, you can enjoy a variety of traditional dishes. Some popular foods are Moussaka and Dolmadakia (stuffed grape leaves). Wine, Raki, and olive oil are also important parts of the meal.

Most festivals are outside, often near churches or in village squares. You can find food stands, drinks, and handmade products. Some festivals even have games and contests.

• Shops: Most small shops in Pitsidia usually stay open, but it’s a good idea to check their hours in advance, especially during Easter and Christmas.
• Tourist Attractions: Museums and archaeological sites may have different hours on holidays. It’s best to check their websites or ask us for help.