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Greek Panigiri Calendar: The Big Summer Feast Days and Where to Go
The main saint's days when Greek villages hold panigiria, from Agios Ioannis to the 15 August Dekapentavgoustos.
By the iLoveGreece editorial team · Last reviewed 2026-11
Quick answer
Most panigiria follow the saint's day of the village church, so the same dates repeat each year. The busiest is 15 August (Dormition of the Virgin), when hundreds of villages celebrate at once. Feasts usually start after sunset the evening before and run past midnight with live music, food and dancing.
At a glance
| Date | Saint / feast | Well-known places |
|---|---|---|
| 23–24 June | Agios Ioannis (Klidonas bonfires) | Villages across Crete and the Cyclades |
| 29–30 June | Agioi Apostoloi | Many coastal chapels |
| 17 July | Agia Marina | Leros, Aegina, Crete |
| 20 July | Profitis Ilias | Hilltop chapels everywhere |
| 26 July | Agia Paraskevi | Ikaria, Epirus villages |
| 6 August | Metamorfosi (Transfiguration) | Mountain villages |
| 15 August | Panagia (Dormition) | Tinos, Paros (Ekatontapyliani), Ikaria, Karpathos (Olympos), Kefalonia |
| 29 August | Beheading of Agios Ioannis | Rural chapels |
| 8 September | Birth of the Virgin | Many island monasteries |
What to know
- Ask in the local kafeneio or check municipality and church posters — many feasts are never listed online.
- Ikaria's panigiria are famous for all-night dancing and shared meat and wine.
- Tinos on 15 August is a major pilgrimage — book ferries and rooms months ahead.
- Entry is usually free; you pay for food and drinks, often at long shared tables.
- Expect a church service first, then the party. Dress modestly if you go inside the church.
FAQ
When is the biggest panigiri in Greece?
15 August, the Dormition of the Virgin Mary, celebrated in hundreds of villages and islands.
Can tourists go to a panigiri?
Yes. Visitors are welcome; join the dancing circle at the end and follow the steps.
What time does a panigiri start?
Usually after the evening service, around 9–10 pm, and often continues until dawn.
Related guides
Updated 2026-11. General planning guidance. Check with operators and local authorities.