When you think of Santorini, you might think of gorgeous whitewashed houses, sparkling blue seas and romantic moments as the sun sets. Well-known as a honeymoon destination, Santorini is often overlooked by other travellers who aren’t paired up. But this idyllic island is the perfect place for all sorts of holidaymakers, with plenty to do and see all year round.
If you love a taste of the local culture on your holiday, then Santorini has plenty to keep you entertained. Getting involved in the hustle and bustle of the local festivals and cultural events can be a great way to see the true Santorini, well away from tourist traps. To make the most of the experience, stay in local accommodation rather than big hotels, and after you’re done, head to the small, authentic restaurants that wait down the side streets. You’re sure to encounter some treasures that will make the trip memorable.
But what events should be on your must-see list? We take a look.
Open Air Cinema Kamari
Perfect for an after-dinner activity, the open-air cinema in Santorini is known for offering low-key elegance. Not only does it host films, but it’s also home to theatre performances, concerts and even art exhibitions. There’s a bus route that stops opposite the cinema, so even if you don’t have a hire car, you can easily get there. Or, ditch the car anyway and get the bus in order to enjoy one or two cocktails at their bar.
The films are in English with Greek subtitles and are shown from May until October. Temperatures range from around 20℃ at the start and end of the season, to peaks of 26℃ in August. Pack a picnic and enjoy some culture under the stars.
International Music Festival
For those looking to skip the crowds and travel off-peak, the International Music Festival of Santorini is one to get in the calendar. Starting in early September, well-known artists from across the world flock to this little island to share their music on this well-respected, intimate stage. The festival takes place in the Petro Nomikos Conference Center in Fira, which only hosts 200 participants, meaning that you’ll get a much more personal experience than any of the big concert halls.
The festival has been running since 1979, and features solo recitals on strings and piano, as well as orchestra performances, piano duets, operatic instrumentals, chamber music and more.
Ifestia festival
If you like your holidays to go off with a bang, then the Ifestia festival is perfect for you. It celebrates the volcanic eruption from 1600 BC that changed the landscape of Santorini, leaving most of the island underwater, and creating the ocean caldera that remains today.
The festival features a fantastic fireworks display set to music, meant to mimic the original eruption, as well as live music, art exhibitions, theatre performances and dance shows. Originally taking place in August, it’s been moved in recent years to September to boost tourism, as people flock from around the world to see the spectacle.
After the display, you can enjoy the revelry in the harbour, where locals and tourists alike gather to dance to the music that’s pumped out of the loudspeakers.
