Traditional events & Festivals | Traditional events & Festivals | About region | Xanthi Prefecture | Regions

September: At the beginning of September (usually in the first 10 days) Xanthi is in a festive mood as the “Celebrations of the Palia Poli” take place. Cultural and other associations in Xanthi organize their stands in the cobblestone streets of the Palia Poli and offer sandwiches, refreshments and plenty of malamatina (alcoholic drink) until dawn. You can hear music and smell barbequed meats everywhere around the town. Some associations offer live music every night. Aside from this revelry, in which everybody participates, there are also cultural events such as exhibitions, concerts and plays. During those days, Xanthi is bustling with people to the extent that, if under normal circumstances you need three minutes to walk through a street, during those days you need 10.
February: Xanthi is also famous for the Carnival. It is organized by the Municipal Development department of Xanthi, the Carnival associations of the area, and others. The original idea of the associations, the happy spirit, the surprises, as well as the activities and the happenings which take place, have made the Carnival of Xanthi the second most famous after the one in Patra.
Kathara Deftera: If you visit Stavroupoli on Kathara Deftera (Clean Monday) do not miss out the tradition of the Camel, otherwise called ‘Jiamala’. The young people of the area make a look-alike of a camel out of rugs and pieces of leather which is moved by two men who hide underneath it. Another young man dresses as an Arab and “mounts” the camel, going around to the houses of the village followed by musicians. The locals give money to the camel, as long as the rider doesn’t lose control. This tradition represents Man’s procession through life.
End of August: When the summer ends, Nestos celebrates. This celebration is about nature. It is usually a three-day celebration with many activities. Visitors can enjoy nature, as they will be immersed in it through activities like rafting, trekking, archery, mountain biking, etc. Those who are not fans of theses sports but love leisure can relax by the river banks and enjoy the scenery. Aside from these activities, during the festivities various cultural events are also organized. Entry is usually free of charge.