Greece is considered as the Cradle of Western Civilization and the various Greece festivals reflect its rich history and culture. Located in southeastern Europe, Greece is a place that is popular with tourists from all over the world. There are lots of ancient and modern festivities in Greece all year round. Here are a few worth experiencing.

Epiphany

Epiphany is a religious festival that takes place during the month of January. During this time, water is sanctified and evil spirits are exiled. As part of this event, priests throw a cross in every body of water like seas, lakes, oceans and rivers.  Then young men dive in and race into the waters to get the cross. It is believed that whoever gets the cross would be blessed the whole year round.

Apokries -The Carnival

This 3 week celebration can be compared to the carnival in Rio de Janiero. Apokries is a colorful celebration wherein people dance and celebrate non-stop. Parades and parties are held all around Greece at this time, the most important one being the parade in Patras. In the parades you will see people in the streets wearing fancy costumes and masks while dancing, singing and partying. The Apokries carnival was started hundreds of years ago to allow people to party before the Lenten season.

International Thessaloniki Film Festival

This international film festival started in the 1960s. Today, it is one of the must-see annual events in Greece that take place during the month of November. Over 150 international and local films are shown during the Thessaloniki International Film Festival. Just like the Oscars, winners of the film festival take home the Golden Alexander award. During the month long festival there are several concerts, art exhibitions and cultural presentations that take place.

Kalymnos Rock-Climbing Festival

This festival takes place in the month of May. If you are an adventure loving person, this festival is for you. Kalymnos has great rock formations and solid limestone cliffs which are good for rock climbing activities. This festival first started in the year 2000. Professional rock climbers, both local and foreign, are allowed to take part in the race. Particular routes are set all around Kalymnos, which measures and tests the strength and skills of the participants.

Festival of the Bull

This festival takes place during the month of June in the town of Agia Paraskevis in Lesvos. The Festival of the Bull is a 3-day festival in which horses race on the streets. There are also live bands and performers that perform and entertain people during the nights. Food is another part of this festival. You can enjoy a variety of special dishes that are available at the several restaurants and street stalls.