Kleidonas

Kleidonas is a traditional summer celebration that takes place on the 19th of June, at the entrance of the old port (Kallirois Siganou sqr) coinciding with the feast day of Saint John the Baptist. The festivities are deeply rooted in Greek folklore and customs, symbolizing the transition from spring to summer and the renewal of nature.

During the Kleidonas festivities, you can expect a variety of traditional activities and rituals. One of the key elements is the lighting of a bonfire. People gather around the fire and leap over it three times, as it is believed to bring good luck and cleanse them of any evil spirits or misfortunes.

There may also be singing and dancing, with traditional Cretan and music and folk dances from Crete Thraki and Ipirous performed throughout the celebration. In some areas, you might witness the "kleidonas" ritual, where young unmarried girls put small personal items under their pillows, and the next day they retrieve them. It is believed that this tradition can reveal information about their future husbands.

It's a festive atmosphere where locals and visitors come together to enjoy the traditions and celebrate the arrival of summer.