Winter festivals of the Republic of Cyprus
In winter, the Republic of Cyprus hosts many events, some of which have fixed dates. Highlights for the 2025–2026 season: Christmas Villages usually run from November 22, 2025, to January 6, 2026; the International Winter Swimming Festival in Ayia Napa — January 17–20, 2026; the 3rd Mandarin Festival in Arakapas — February 1, 2026; the 7th Almond Blossom Festival in Giolou — February 15, 2026; Carnival Week in Limassol — February 12–22, 2026. Dates and programs may be updated by organizers, so check the latest announcements before your trip.
- Winter Events Calendar 2025–2026
- Late November – January: Christmas Villages and Fairs
- January: International Winter Swimming Festival in Ayia Napa
- February: Citrus, Blossoms, and Carnival
- How to Plan a Festival Trip
- Frequently Asked Questions
Winter Events Calendar 2025–2026
| Date | Event | Location | Typical Activities |
|---|---|---|---|
| November 22, 2025 – January 6, 2026 | Christmas Villages | villages of the Republic of Cyprus | markets, local products and crafts, workshops, seasonal activities |
| January 17–20, 2026 | International Winter Swimming Festival | Ayia Napa | sea swims, daytime beach program, excursion, brunch, and cultural program |
| February 1, 2026 | Mandarin Festival | Arakapas (Limassol District) | food and drinks themed around mandarins, market stalls, workshops, music |
| February 15, 2026 | Almond Blossom Festival | Giolou (Paphos District) | village walks/excursions, local delicacies, daytime program |
| February 12–22, 2026 | Carnival Week | Limassol | street parties, contests, performances, parades; start often associated with Tsiknopempti |
Glossary
- Christmas Villages — a winter format of village-style sites featuring markets, events, and gastronomy during the Christmas period.
- Tsiknopempti — traditional “Meat Thursday” before the start of Lent; often considered the starting point of carnival activities.
- SUP — Stand Up Paddleboard.
Late November – January: Christmas Villages and Fairs
Christmas Villages
The “Christmas Villages” format usually includes markets, stalls with local products and crafts, seasonal menus in cafes and taverns, workshops, and outdoor activities. The list of locations varies each year, so it is more convenient to choose based on proximity to your city and the program for a specific day.
Typical Purchases at Winter Fairs
- local sweets and preserves (jams, “spoon” desserts, syrups);
- craft items and small gifts;
- sets of regional products.
January: International Winter Swimming Festival in Ayia Napa
The International Winter Swimming Festival in Ayia Napa invites brave participants from all over Cyprus and other countries. In 2026, the 3rd festival will take place over four days — from January 17 to 20, 2026.
2026 Program by Day
| Day | Scheduled Activities | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Sunday | winter sea swimming; sand sculpture contest; Tai Chi and yoga classes; SUP board exhibition | main part of the program |
| Monday | excursion for participants | route and conditions depend on the organizer |
| Tuesday | another sea swim; brunch; visit to the Thalassa Museum | final day of the festival |
Who It’s Suitable For
- those who want to combine a seaside walk with a full daytime program;
- beach activity enthusiasts (yoga/Tai Chi, sand sculptures);
- travelers who value organized activities and a social atmosphere.
February: Citrus, Blossoms, and Carnival
3rd Mandarin Festival in Arakapas
Arakapas (Limassol District) celebrates the citrus season with the Mandarin Festival. For 2026, the date is announced as February 1: live music, workshops, market stalls, and dishes inspired by mandarins.
7th Almond Blossom Festival in Giolou
Giolou (Paphos District) hosts a festival tied to almond blossom season. For 2026, the date is February 15. Usually, it is a daytime village square event with walks around the village, local treats, and a traditional program.
Carnival Week in Limassol
Carnival Week in Limassol in 2026 is scheduled for February 12–22. The city usually hosts street parties, performances, and parades. In some programs, the start is linked to Tsiknopempti, and the main days attract the largest crowds.
How to Plan a Festival Trip
- Check the date, time, and location. Details for village festivals are sometimes updated closer to the date.
- Assess transportation. A car is more convenient for villages and natural locations; if you don’t have a car, plan your return trip in advance.
- Allow extra time for parking. During festival days, parking near squares and waterfronts fills up quickly.
- Bring cash. At small fairs, card payments may not be accepted everywhere.
- Dress for the weather. Even on sunny days, evenings in the mountains or by the sea can be cool.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are winter festivals official holidays in the Republic of Cyprus?
Usually not. Most festivals are local community/municipal events and take place on weekends chosen by the organizers.
Where to check the most up-to-date program?
With the event organizer (community/municipality, venue, official festival page). This is especially important for swim times, excursions, and entrance conditions.
Do I need to buy tickets in advance?
Village festivals are often free or paid on site. Some programs (excursions, dinners, individual activities) may require registration or separate payment — this is indicated in the announcement.
Which winter events are most suitable for visiting with children?
Usually considered family-friendly are Christmas Villages and daytime village festivals (citrus/blossoms). For seaside festivals, refer to the program for the specific day and age restrictions for activities.
Where to get the latest information and event announcements?
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