Events in Crete

Discover the magic of TSOUNATO organic extra virgin olive oil, meticulously crafted by the Papadakis family and local olive growers in the mountain village of Sellia, near the captivating seaside Plakias village in southern Rethymno, Crete.

Chania Film Festival (CFF) is an international festival in the last week of October every year.

An organisation that quickly became an institution with international collaborations, with many parallel events, recognition. A cinematographic event that aspires to host the best films in the field of cinema, from all around the world. A meeting place for fiction films, documentaries, and animation films, as well as directors, producers, and actors.

During its eleven-day duration (the last week of October and the first week of November every year), more than 22.000 viewers (including the school audience) attend the screenings and the parallel events, such as workshops, master classes, and exhibitions. The CFF is also active throughout the year, as it produces and presents several events, special screenings, educational workshops, film productions, etc.

The ISF CHAMPIONS LEAGUE brings together club 6-a-side teams from all over the World to compete for the crown of Europes 6-a-side Champions!

The 2024 edition takes place on 17-20. October 2024 in Crete, Rethymno, Greece and it will be attended by over 60 teams from all around the World.

The 2023 edition took place in Maribor, in Slovenia. The tournament saw Croatian side NK Victory take home the crown, after beating Ukrainian side MC Sarmat in a nail biting final.

The Chestnut Festival in Elos Village is a cherished autumn tradition on Crete, celebrated every year on the third Sunday of October -this year falling on the 20th. Located in the picturesque West part of Crete, near Kissamos, the village of Elos is surrounded by scenic chestnut trees that mark the harvest season.

This vibrant event offers visitors a taste of local culture and cuisine, with the spotlight on chestnut-inspired dishes. Along with indulging in these seasonal treats, festival-goers can enjoy live music, traditional folk dances, and the island’s famous spirit, tsikoudia. The festival also showcases traditional Greek costumes, hosts various competitions, and provides a lively atmosphere perfect for immersing yourself in Cretan culture. Whether you’re a local or a curious traveler, the Chestnut Festival is a delightful way to celebrate autumn in Crete.

OXI Day, meaning “The Day of No” (Oxi or Όχι, which means ‘No’ in Greek), is a significant national holiday celebrated on October 28 in Greece, Cyprus, and by Greek communities around the world. It commemorates the courageous refusal of Greece’s Prime Minister, Ioannis Metaxas, when he denied Italian Prime Minister Benito Mussolini’s demand to allow Italian troops to enter Greece on October 28, 1940. This bold rejection marked Greece’s entry into World War II and is admired globally as a symbol of bravery and resistance.

On Crete, Ohi Day is celebrated with parades held in most towns, including Chania, Rethymnon, Heraklion, and Agios Nikolaos. Schoolchildren and military personnel march proudly, accompanied by live music and local festivities. If you’re in Heraklion, Kournaros Square is a prime location to view the parade.

Expect road closures and traffic delays, as streets will be blocked for parades, and buses filled with schoolchildren will be transporting participants. In addition to the parades, special Orthodox services are held in the main cathedrals across the island. Note that all archaeological sites, along with most businesses and services, will be closed for the holiday.

Ohi Day is not only a time to celebrate Greece’s historical bravery, but also an opportunity to experience the local culture and pride that defines Crete.