Cretan Diet Festival 2023

Taste, Dance, and Celebrate: Cretan Diet Festival in Rethymno!
Taste the Essence of Cretan Heritage at the Rethymno Diet Festival!

Welcome to the Rethymno Cretan Diet Festival! Come and celebrate the rich cultural experiences and traditions of the Ida communities in the picturesque Psiloritis region of Crete. Prepare yourself for a one-of-a-kind culinary journey as we delve into the flavors and customs that have shaped the Cretan diet.

We invite you to join us in honoring the vibrant customs and intangible cultural legacy of the Ida communities. Nestled in the awe-inspiring Psiloritis region of Crete, the IDAology research initiative combines cultural mediation, cutting-edge technologies, and scientific documentation.

Experience the exceptional traits of the shepherds of Psiloritis as they engage with the local and global community through digital data. We actively involve and collaborate with the residents who reside and work in the mountainous landscapes of Psiloritis to collect, document, and share remarkable traditions and pastoral pursuits.

For young food enthusiasts, we have an exciting Olive Bread-Making Workshop. Children will learn the art of bread-making using olives, an essential ingredient in Cretan cuisine. Their creativity will flourish as they shape and bake their very own delicious olive bread.

Discover "The Tropic Crete" through a delectable Avocado Pastry Workshop, where kids will have a hands-on experience creating avocado chocolate mousse. This workshop showcases the fusion of local ingredients with international influences, highlighting the diverse culinary landscape of Crete.

Join us for a captivating Cooking Demonstration where local fishermen will reveal the secrets of fish preparation. Together, we will prepare the renowned "Kakavia" soup, a traditional fisherman's dish. Learn the art of selecting the freshest fish and savor the flavors of the sea in this interactive session.

Indulge your sweet tooth with artisanal Ice Cream Treats created by skilled pastry chefs. These delightful creations will transport you to a world of creamy delights, showcasing the expertise and creativity of culinary artists.  

Immerse yourself in the culinary heritage of the Amari area through a captivating presentation of typical traditional recipes and local products. Discover the rich flavors and unique ingredients that reflect the cultural identity of the Agios Vasiliou and Amari region.

In the Drink Pairing Workshop, explore the wonders of Cretan Tsikoudia (Raki) and selected liqueurs. Experience how the right pairing of food enhances the taste of these traditional drinks. Marianna Kavroulaki, an esteemed Archaeologist and Gastronomy History Researcher will give a captivating speech entitled "Sips of History: Beer," diving into the fascinating story behind ancient and modern beverages.

Uncover the secrets of homebrewing with a presentation of the process using a ready-made kit. Learn the steps to create your own unique brew and discover the craftsmanship behind this age-old tradition.

Prepare to be entertained with a series of captivating concerts. Kostis Maraveyas will grace the stage, enchanting the audience with soulful melodies. Marmitas ft. Sugahspank & Circus Shows will bring a unique blend of soul, funk, disco, and jazz, ensuring an unforgettable night of music and entertainment.

The Gadjo Dilo music group will mesmerize you with its fusion of gypsy jazz and beloved Greek songs, creating a musical style that is uniquely their own. Stavros Siolas, with his distinct vocal timbre and modern aesthetic, will deliver a performance inspired by tradition and modern Greek songwriting.

The Vamos Ensemble Music Group presents "Love Songs of All Times," a modular performance featuring four thematic sections revolving around the theme of love. From Hatzidakis to retro, rebetika, and contemporary songs, this musical journey will touch your heart and soul.

Get ready to experience the vibrant sounds of Cretan music with a concert by Giorgis Fasoulas on the lyre and Kostas Kallergis on the lute, accompanied by their talented music group. The "KRITES" School of Dance will captivate you with traditional Cretan music and dances, performed by the music group of Dimitris Keramnianakis and Stelios Stelioudakis.

Join us at the Rethymno Cretan Diet Festival as we celebrate the culinary heritage, music, and traditions of this remarkable region. Immerse yourself in the IDAology and experience the true essence of Psiloritis and its communities.