Traditional festivals continue through August

With many people on holiday in Cyprus, now is the time to enjoy traditional produce

August is a great time to visit Cyprus’ mountain and rural villages, to find solace in their cooler climate and traditional fun in the many local festivals that are on this month. Nearly every rural community organises annual events in village squares celebrating seasonal produce or simply the summer break. Here are a handful of traditional festivals coming up this month.

The 50^th Alona Festival is on this August and its activities run until Saturday. Concerts, bingo nights in the village, a traditional market, coffee made by the ladies of the village and an exhibition will take place on different days while the festival is on.

Also happening these days is the 42^nd Lefkara Festival which has daily events until August 17 and an extra event on August 24. If you find yourself in the village today, you will enjoy food from around the world at the Lefkara Street Food Festival while next week’s events include live music performances, concerts and an outdoor cinema night.

Another village community will organise a multiday occasion this week. On August 15-18, the 33^rd Lofou Dekapentavgoustos Festival will take place and the Elementary School’s courtyard will fill with music, theatre and other activities. The highlight of the festival is expected to be Eleni Vitali’s concert on August 15.

Next will be the 45^th edition of the Dionysia Festival in Stroumpi village on August 16 and 17. Big names from the Greek music scene are set to perform in the Paphos village – Giorgos Tsalikis and Themis Adamantides on day one and Lefteris Pantazis and Koni Metaxa on day two.

Then, on August 17, Kato Milos will host its Peach Festival with a variety of activities held at the church square, the old elementary school and the Rodakinia Cultural Centre. Be sure to try the many peach delights that will be prepared.

Finally, seaside Zygi will welcome back the return of the Zygi Fish Festival on the last day of the month. Fishermen will tie up their boats and present fresh fish throughout the day while a market with local produce is set up, the fish taverns of the area fill up and a live music programme entertains guests. What’s more, local chefs will demonstrate delicious recipes live. What a treat August is!

50^th Alona Festival

Music, exhibitions, local market and more. Until August 17. Alona village, Nicosia district

42^nd Lefkara Festival

Annual cultural festival with live performances, exhibitions and more. Until August 17 and on 24. Lefkara village, Larnaca district. www.lefkara.org.cy

33^rd Lofou Dekapentavgoustos Festival

4-day festival with music, theatre, food and games. August 15-18. Lofou village, Limassol district. €10-20. Tel: 25-354101

45^th Dionysia Festival

Music, food and more. August 16-17. Stroumpi village, Paphos district

Peach Festival

Market, food and entertainment. August 17. Kato Milos village, Limassol district. 10am-8pm. Free. Tel: 99-830845

4^th Zygi Fish Festival

Food, music, chef demonstrations and fresh fish. August 31. Zygi village, Larnaca district. 5pm onwards