
Originally posted April 9 2017, updated April 2019
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The orange festival at Massari is an annual event on the island, it usually happens either the last Sunday in March or first Sunday in April. Dates of many things here depend on religious festivals and lot of those move, either check in the local press, social forums or look out for the banners that appear on the main road and roundabouts between Massari and Malona.
One of the larger festivals on the island and happening outside the tourist season, it’s a traditional local festival. Free to enter, go with a group of friends and enjoy the atmosphere. Last weekend was a great turnout with locals and expats coming from all over the island to help celebrate the orange harvest.


















We left in the late afternoon, though I’m sure the music and fun went on. Set among the orange groves of Massari it’s a great day out. If you want to park close to the festival arrive before midday, and bring a hat as there’s stiff competition for the tables in the shade.




Dates for the Orange Festival:
2016 Sunday April 3rd
2017 Sunday April 9th
2018 Sunday April 15th
2019 Sunday April 7th *** rescheduled to April 14th due to the weather ***
A really great festival, and even more important within walking distance for us. I do find it fascinating however that they sell over 6000 souvlkia even when the date falls in lent. Getting ready to go shortly, suncream on as already it is 28 C.I think that the shaded seats will go very quickly this year.
Hope it went well, I saw that it was a very hot one this year. Never thought about the fact that it can often fall during Lent, thanks.
Fabulous post. What a wonderful festival, full of colour and vitamin C.
I don’t recognise Cretan costume among the dancers, looks more like northern Greece to me. Someone else may know for sure. X
Thank you Yvonne, I’ll let you know if I find out about the costumes…