Chania’s Venetian harbour hosts 29th Tsikoudia Festival

Chania’s Venetian harbour filled with visitors on October 17 for the 29th Tsikoudia Festival, an annual celebration of the traditional Cretan spirit held in the square by Giali Tzami.

The event was organized by the dance group “O Psiloteitis,” which set up a traditional copper still, known as a kazani, in the middle of the square and offered free tastings to attendees. Dancers from the group performed alongside members of the Brotherhood of Koromnaioi from Kalamaria, Thessaloniki, and the Northern Greeks’ Cultural Association of Chania “Orpheas,” who also took part in the evening’s dance performances.

According to the organizers, the festival has become an annual tradition in the city over its 29 years, drawing residents and visitors each October to mark the production of tsikoudia, a pomace brandy distilled from grape must that is a staple of Cretan hospitality.

The gathering is one of several cultural events held regularly in Chania, where local associations organize seasonal celebrations tied to harvests and traditional crafts. Visitors interested in similar cultural gatherings can also follow the Chania Film Festival, which opens its 14th edition later this month.