The Faratsaina Festival: The Heart of Cypriot Traditions

If you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city for a short while and discover a different side of Cyprus, head to the mountain village of Agioi Vavatsinias for the Faratsaina Festival.

For three days, the traditions of rural Cyprus will come to life here: music and dance, crafts, art, gastronomy, and local customs.

Guests can look forward to workshops on traditional crafts and cooking. You’ll have the chance to try your hand at making pottery, drawing, or learning about traditional musical instruments.

Cypriot cuisine takes center stage in the program. Participants will be shown how to prepare traditional dishes, including ttavas and zucchini flowers in batter, as well as famous Cypriot sweets—palouzes and souzoukos.

Music and dance will also be part of the festivities. The program includes traditional Cypriot dances, musical performances, and a grand concert dedicated to the renowned Cypriot composer Manos Loizos, whose roots are tied to Agioi Vavatsinias.

For nature lovers, there will be walks and outdoor activities. You can go on a bike ride through the pine forests or hike the Faratsaina Trail with a guide.

The festival program also includes an exhibition of works by local artists, a documentary screening, and a literary evening featuring works by authors and poets from Agioi Vavatsinias.

The Faratsaina Festival offers the chance to spend a few days immersed in the atmosphere of a traditional Cypriot village, learn about its history and traditions, sample the local cuisine, and experience Cyprus from a completely different perspective.

Date: September 11–13, 2026
Location: Agioi Vavatsinias, Larnaca District
Main venues: the elementary school grounds, the Chapel of Saint Paisios, and various locations throughout the village
Additional information: +357 97875744