Lefkada boasts enchanting and special annual events!
From the Ionian Sea Festival, colorful carnivals, religious celebrations, wine and food events, water sports competitions to spectacular cultural performances that attract many visitors.
Lefkada Carnival
Lefkada Carnival
Takes place before the Easter fasting period, usually in February-March.
The carnival includes colorful parades, spectacular costumes, live music and dancing in the streets of Lefkada city.
Greek Independence Day
Greek Independence Day
Celebrated on March 25 with parades, traditional dances, and patriotic events throughout the island.
Lefkada Marathon
A unique running event held on the island, typically in spring or autumn.
The main race is a half marathon (21.1 km), but there are also shorter routes of 10 km, 5 km, and children’s tracks.
The route passes through stunning island landscapes, including rural paths, olive groves, and beaches, highlighting Lefkada’s natural beauty.
The event promotes a healthy lifestyle and environmental awareness, attracting participants of all levels – from professional runners to amateurs.
The race concludes with a medal and awards ceremony, accompanied by related activities such as sports fairs and nutrition workshops.
International Sailing Competition
The event, typically held during summer months (July-August), attracts the best sailors and yachts from Greece and around the world. The competition consists of several races in different categories, taking advantage of the Ionian Sea’s perfect wind conditions and the island’s stunning bay views. Besides the competition itself, the regatta includes social events at Lefkada port, including a festive opening ceremony, beach parties, and an impressive awards ceremony. The event has become an important tourist attraction showcasing the island’s rich maritime tradition.
Ionian Sea Festival
Ionian Sea Festival
Usually held in July-August, featuring music performances, dances, and artworks reflecting the island’s maritime heritage.
The event also includes sailing competitions and marine activities.
Aristoteles Valaoritis Festival
Aristoteles Valaoritis Festival
International Music Festival
International Folklore Festival
Usually held during summer months, at the end of August. The event lasts about a week and attracts traditional folklore groups and artists from Greece and around the world.
The festival has gained international recognition and is one of the island’s most important cultural events, with a history and tradition spanning decades. During the festival, Lefkada’s city center fills with street performances, colorful parades, traditional music, and dancing.
For the festival’s official website click here
Literary Festival
Lefkada International Book Festival
Usually held in August, typically in the second half of the month.
The event lasts 3-5 days and takes place in Lefkada city, with main venues including the local public library, municipal theater, and other public spaces in the city.
Traditional Wedding Reenactment
Folk wedding reenactment
This is a three-day event held since 1954 every August in Karia village. The first day showcases pre-wedding customs: matchmaking, engagement, hair washing, sourdough preparation, and the dowry ceremony. The second day features the reenactment of the traditional wedding and feast in the village square. The third day concludes with the preparation of the wedding pie, Lefkada’s traditional olive oil pie.
Wine and Harvest Festival
Wine Harvest Festival
Usually held in autumn, typically in September or early October, according to the local harvest and vintage season.
Exact dates vary from year to year and depend on various factors such as weather conditions and harvest. The festival typically takes place over the weekend and can last from one day to several days.
To get exact dates for the current year, it’s recommended to check Lefkada’s official tourism website or contact the island’s tourist information center a few weeks before your planned visit. Updated details are usually also posted on local bulletin boards and the local council’s social media.
Gastronomy Festival
Gastronomy Festival
A celebration of local cuisine held at the end of summer, featuring food stalls, cooking demonstrations, and opportunities to taste traditional island dishes.
For more information, you can contact Lefkada Municipality directly at email >>
lefkasf@otenet.gr
or phone number >>
+302645026635