A Kos Summer You Will Never Forget
The Kos summer is a fascinating time of the year, not only for tourists, but also for the locals, who get to enjoy a wealth of activities and events celebrating their culture, natural resources, folklore, and heritage.
This Kos summer marks the calendars with some of the most exciting Koan events that reveal a lot about the local lifestyle and tradition. August is one of the busiest months, with events like the Mastichari Wine Festival, the Fish Festival in Kefalos, and the Honey festival in Antimacheia and in Kefalos. But, by far the most important celebration of the Koan summer is Hippocratia, dedicated to the father of modern medicine, Hippocrates, who was born on Kos.
Hippocratia
Hippocratia is a cultural festival starting with the reading of the Hippocratic oath at the beginning of June at the Asklepieion and ending in October. It boasts a multitude of cultural events celebrating Hippocrates, but also honoring the local traditions and Christianity. Some of the performances offer free admission, while others are reasonably priced and can usually be attended by spectators of all ages. Hippocratia has group activities and theater for the little ones, all kinds of art exhibitions, sports tournaments like the volley in Tigaky, and concerts galore. Religious events include church Vespers and the feast of the Assumption on August 14.
Mastichari Wine Festival
The Mastichari Wine Festival happens in the first week of August in Mastichari, a tourist resort about 22 kilometers west from Kos town. At the end of the month, every August 29, for a taste of local tradition, you can also attend the local festival, which honors Agios Ioannis (St. John).
Kefalos Fish Festival
The Kefalos Fish Festival is usually scheduled in the first half of August. It is followed by two more significant festivals on the 15th of August, celebrating the Assumption of Virgin Mary, and on the 29th of August in honor of Agios Ioannis (St. John).
Antimachia Honey Festival
The Antimachia Honey Festival takes place on the first Saturday following the Feast of the Assumption (August 15th). It is a lively event with music and dancing and loads of good (sweet) food. Try the local doughnuts dipped in honey.
These are some of the local celebrations that make the Kos summer such a great time to visit Kos.