Along with Ayia Napa's reputation as a party destination, it also holds several festivals annually that highlight the historical and cultural traditions of the area. Once a sleepy beach community, the small city of Ayia Napa has been transformed into a tourist destination for Europeans and other international tourists drawn in by the area's prominence as an electronic music lovers' destination. These traditional festivals preserve the area's cultural heritage and give visitors a unique insight into the lives and beliefs of modern Cypriots.

Ayia Napa Festival

The most prominent and well-known festival in the city is the Ayia Napa Festival. First started in 1985, this annual festival taking place in September features numerous events that highlight the cultural, agricultural and historic traditions of not only Ayia Napa residents, but those of Cyprus as a whole. Events include concerts, operas, theater performances and both Cypriot and international folk dancing. The festival is held at Ayia Napa Monastery's Sepheris Square.

A week long Medieval Festival is a relatively new addition to the festival culture of Ayia Napa. This celebration taking place in October consists of many original music and dance performances from Greek and Cypriot groups. There are several exhibitions featuring Medieval weaponry and Venetian masks at this festival that also takes place at the Ayia Napa Monastery.  

The month leading up to Christmas is celebrated in Ayia Napa with a variety of events. Starting with a Christmas tree lighting ceremony, there is weekly caroling, activities for kids and numerous special markets for eating and shopping during the celebration. Ending with a New Year's Eve celebration that includes music and the firing up of the Central Square's traditional clay oven, this festive celebration gives the visitor an insight into the culture of modern day Cypriots. Beginning around the first week of December, the Christmas Festival takes place throughout the remainder of the month of December.

The Ayia Napa Children's Festival is a great opportunity for visitors with children to involve them in the cultural heritage of Cyprus during their vacation. This annual 1-day celebration taking place in June includes many stalls for food and shopping as well as numerous performances and activities specifically directed to children's interests.

If you happen to be traveling to Ayia Napa around the time of these festivals, be sure to check them out. Visiting a local festival can be a rewarding experience that can provide a great look into a culture and its people that otherwise may go unnoticed.