Traditional Christmas Market in the Village of Deryneia
Every year in the second half of November, the traditional Christmas fair begins in the village of Deryneia — one of the warmest and most atmospheric events in eastern Cyprus.
Traditional Cypriot village of Deryneia
Located in the Famagusta (Ammochostos) region, the small town of Deryneia (location) — originally known as Erinia — has a rich ancient history and was likely the arrival place of the first settlers after the Trojan War.
Being one of the famous "red soil villages" (Kokkinochoria), Deryneia is considered the main strawberry producer in Cyprus and is known for its sweet and fragrant berries. Every two years, a popular strawberry festival is held here, where visitors can enjoy juice, jam, ice cream, and liqueurs made from local strawberries.
Among the village’s attractions are the Folk Art Museum, the Open-Air Traditional Professions Museum, and the Cultural Center of Occupied Ammochostos. Deryneia also hosts important Christian churches: the 15th-century church of Agia Marina, the Byzantine church of Panagia with 17th-century icons, and the small medieval church of Agios Georgios.
Every year on 16 December (the feast of Saint Modestos), a significant religious festival is held with market stalls, music, and traditional Cypriot cuisine. Immediately after, the Christmas fair opens, filling the village with festive spirit.
Deryneia Christmas village opening hours
The Christmas fair operates from 22 November 2025 to 22 December on Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays.
From 23 December 2025 to 6 January 2026, the Christmas fair operates daily.
- Weekdays: 15:00 – 21:00
- Weekends: 11:00 – 21:00
- 25–28 December: 18:00 – 21:00
Programme and useful links
- Bus schedule (Greek)
- Facebook page
- Instagram page
- Phone: +35723811000
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These articles are created by our staff using AI assistants.