August 15 in Attica: Celebrations and fairs praise the summer!
The “Summer Easter” or “Dekapentavgoustos” feast is celebrated every year on the 15th of August throughout Attica with magnificence, in a prayerful yet playful ambiance. Commemorating the final resting of Holy Mary, this sacred day of Orthodoxy is honored in the heart of the most summerish month and invites locals and travelers to join a refreshing and euphoric experience.
The islands may be the true stars of this festive day, however Attica mainland is as impressive, following traditions and hosting local events where people connect with each other in liberating circle dances. Dekapentavgoustos in Attica is all about open hearts, moving bodies and a great chance to get to know the beauties of this land, along with music and local delicacies. Note to self: Dekapentavgoustos is a public holiday, so book your table in advance in the restaurant of your choice and of course check its opening hours on that day.
Mesmerizing atmosphere in Attican islands
On the island of Kythera, locals and visitors are brought together at the great fair of Potamos village. With riveting architecture and traditional houses, this community organizes a great festival at its central square, with dancing, local treats and lavish amounts of wine. The local monastery is the safe keeper of the Miraculous Holy Icon of Panagia Myrtidiotissa, one of the most important relics of the island, symbol of its inhabitants’ orthodox faith.
Every August 15, the island of Hydra lights up and colorful little flags adorn the Cathedral of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, at the center of its port. Theomitorika, as the early celebrations are called, start from the first days of August and peak during the majestic feast, where the island becomes as charming as it gets, with its scenic alleys filled with more and more light and shine.
In Spetses, everyone rushes to the Holy Church of the Dormition of the Virgin Mary at Kasteli, the first metropolis of the island. Locals and travelers go up the village and participate in revering events, bewitched by the panoramic view of the spot.
On this great holy day, the Monastery of Panagia Chrysoleontissa, a women’s monastery spanning centuries of history, is the meeting place in Aegina. Looming over a high and mountainous slope, surrounded by a breathtaking landscape, this monastery becomes the “centerpiece” and hosts the biggest feast of the island.
Every Dekapentavgoustos, in Agistri, the Church of Virgin Mary at Metochi settlement becomes the heart of festivities. Cheer up and make some memories at the fair of this small yet lush island of Attica.
Every year, from 23 to 25 August, locals and visitors worship the Holy Monastery of Faneromeni at the northwest part of Salamina. Preparationsfor the joyful eventstart days ago and the festive spirit spreads along every inch of the island.
Revelry and dancing at the mainland of Attica
Overlooking the island of Poros, the coastal village of Vidi stands out for the Holy Church of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary. Every single year on August 15, a bountiful fair takes place at its courtyard and the street outside the church. Locals offer their visitors handmade pancakes, but most of all they offer their exuberant smiles, a symbol of community and coexistence.
The Monastery of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary at Kleista of Fyli area, at the foothills of Parnitha mountain is the oldest monastery in Attica, celebrating on August 15 every year. Surrounded by rocks, the monastery used to be a shelter in wartime. The icon of the “Unfading Rose”, featuring Virgin Mary to hold Jesus in her arms, is its precious exhibit. On the occasion of Dekapentavgoustos, from 14 to 16 August, a 3-day festival is hosted annually in the area of Chasia, joined by popular singers of folk and traditional music. High spirit, lashings of wine and vibrant atmosphere fall no short of island festivities.
After the devout reverence at the Holy Church of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, Porto Rafti holds a great craft fair along its coast. Local residents and visitors stroll around enjoying the summer breeze, glancing at the fanciful products offered by peddlers. Never-stopping dancing and local treats at the central square: that’s the spirit at Nea Palatia of Oropos or even at the suburb of Amarousion, at Agias Lavras square.
Are you planning to spend August 15 on an island or in the mainland of Attica? No matter where, embrace the unconstrained joy and bright rejoicings. The spirit of this holy day praising the Virgin Mary, the beloved Panagia of Greeks, floods these days and brightens up your trip with cheerful colors. Jump into the dancing circle, enjoy flavorful treats and live this summer celebration to the fullest!
