This weekend promises a vibrant line-up of festivals and events across Cyprus, offering something for everyone. From the creative, collaborative and artistic energy of the 11th edition of Xarkis Festival in Old Nicosia to the laughter-filled 2nd Stantar Kkomedy Festival in Limassol, there’s no shortage of excitement. Folklore enthusiasts can enjoy performances from around the Mediterranean at a festival in Larnaca, while reggae lovers will gather for live music, DJs and workshops in Moni. More events take place this weekend as the events’ agenda comes to life again.
Starting on Friday is the latest version ofXarkis Festival, which this year takes place in multiple venues in old Nicosia. Exhibitions, installations, performances, participatory workshops and so much more will happen this Friday, Saturday and Sunday as Cypriot and international artists come together with the local community to present interdisciplinary work. The festival offers experiences and events for all ages and backgrounds – a ‘must’ event if you are in Nicosia this weekend.
On the same three days, Rialto Theatre and the surrounding area will host comedy shows, open mic competitions and stand-up battles at the 2nd Stantar Kkomety Festival. What’s special in this edition is that the festival will host a comedy show in English this time, as well as one for children in Greek.
For a taste of tradition from around the Mediterranean and the world, the 17th Mediterranean Folklore Dance Festivalwill also take place this weekend at Finikoudes with performing dance groups from abroad and the island. Parades, exquisite traditional costumes, choir performances and much more will unfold on the seafront stage with free entrance to all.
Along the coastline in Moni village, Ithaki bar will host a reggae music festival this weekend with workshops, exhibitions and a line-up of performances by local bands and DJs. The One Love Festival Cyprus starts on Friday and lasts until Sunday continuing the summer vibe.
Several more festivals will host their annual editions this weekend including Flying Away in Nicosia, Vegan Fam Fest in Psematismenos village and Access for All Festival in Limassol. Festival season is still thriving in Cyprus and a handful more are about to take place this month, with even more festivals getting ready to appear in October.
Xarkis Festival
11th edition. September 15. Old Nicosia. www.xarkis.org
2nd Stantar Kkomety Festival
Comedy festival with shows, battles and workshops for children and adults. September 15. Rialto Theatre, Heroes’ Square and Sto Dromo bar, Limassol. In Greek and English. Tickets: €12/10 (Festival Pass: €40). www.rialto.com.cy
17th Mediterranean Folklore Dance Festival
Festival with dance and music performances by groups from the Mediterranean and beyond. September 15, 16,17. Finikoudes seafront stage and around Larnaca. www.reamadellaioannidou.com, www.facebook.com/MedFestCy
One Love Festival Cyprus
Reggae festival with live music, DJs, workshops and an exhibition. September 15. Ithaki bar, Moni, Limassol. www.onelovefestivalcy.com
Access for All Festival
Festival for the inclusion of people with disabilities. September 15. Old Port Limassol. 5.30pm-9pm. Free
Art and music festival. September 13-15. Famagusta Gate bastion, Nicosia. Tickets at www.more.com
Vegan Fam Fest
Plant-based and healthy living festival with performances, workshops, cooking demonstrations and more. September 14-15. Ancient Olive Trees Park, Psematismenos village. 2pm-11pm. Tel: 7000-2828
