Fun Activities in Cyprus
Carnival
The Limassol Carnival is the biggest and most vibrant carnival celebration in Cyprus, held annually in the weeks leading up to Lent. With roots dating back over a century, it features colorful parades, elaborate costumes, masquerade parties, and lively music. The festivities kick off with the Grand Parade, where floats and dancers fill the streets of Limassol with energy and joy.
Wine festival
The Limassol Wine Festival is one of Cyprus’s most famous annual events, held in late August or early September. Inspired by the island’s rich winemaking tradition, the festival offers unlimited wine tastings from local producers, traditional Cypriot food, live music, dance performances, and cultural exhibitions. Taking place in Limassol Municipal Gardens, it attracts both locals and tourists who come to celebrate Cypriot wine. The festival has been a tradition since 1961 and remains a highlight of the island’s cultural calendar.
Paphos Aphrodite festival
The Paphos Aphrodite Festival is an annual open-air opera event held every September in front of the historic Paphos Medieval Castle. It attracts opera lovers from around the world, featuring performances by renowned international opera companies. The festival combines world-class music with a stunning seaside backdrop, creating a magical atmosphere. Named after Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love, who, according to legend, was born in Paphos, the event is a cultural highlight in Cyprus, blending history, mythology, and the arts.
Anthestiria
The Anthestiria Festival is a vibrant celebration of spring, flowers, and nature, held every May in Cyprus, especially in cities like Limassol, Paphos, and Larnaca. Inspired by ancient Greek traditions honoring Dionysus, the god of wine and fertility, the festival features colorful floral parades, elaborate flower displays, and cultural performances. Streets are filled with beautifully decorated floats and participants carrying fresh flowers, symbolizing renewal and life. Anthestiria is a joyful event that brings communities together to welcome the beauty of nature.
Kataklysmos
Kataklysmos, or the Festival of the Flood, is a Cypriot celebration held in early June, blending Christian and ancient pagan traditions. It features water-related festivities like games, boat races, and playful water fights, symbolizing purification and renewal. The festival also includes traditional music, dance, poetry contests, and food stalls, creating a lively and culturally rich atmosphere.