Summer in Crete is a feast in itself, because it is part of every Cretan's character to celebrate every single moment. In the county's villages, wedding and baptism celebrations take place outdoors, usually in the village square. Traditional music and dancing are obligatory. If you happen to come across such a celebration, do not hesitate to join in, you will be made to feel welcome. Later on, when most of the guests have gone home, the notorious "balothies" (shooting) will begin, despite all restrictions and prohibitions to the contrary. The county's most important cultural event is undoubtedly the Cultural Summer. Every August, the Municipality of Heraklion organises cultural events, mainly in the Nikos Kazantzakis and Manos Chatzidakis garden theatres in the city, but also in other Municipal departments. These events include lectures on the area's cultural and archaeological heritage, theatre, music and dance performances, and Cretan evenings with traditional Cretan music.Artists such as the Chainides and Loudovikos ton Anogion give concerts almost every year, so make sure you get a schedule of the events in good time (tel. +30 2810-242977, 39921 I2, fax +30 28 10-229207). Other events you may attend are:
The Tsikoudia Festival in Agia Varvara
In mid-July, the Kavrochori cultural association holds a "mantinada" (rhyming verse) competition and a Cretan cooking competition in the village square, which is only 15 minutes away from Heraklion. A cherry festival takes place in Sarchos at the beginning of June, and includes a Cretan feast, abundant cherries from the village trees, and of course traditional Cretan cooking. At the beginning of the summer, the Cultural Association of Agia Varvara Municipality holds a three-day feast, with local food, tsikoudia (an alcohol drink) and traditional Cretan music. "Chochlidovradia" (snail evening!) takes place every July in Archontiko village. The village is north of Arkalochon. During the festivities, you will be able to taste thick and thin "chochlious", i.e. snails, cooked in many different ways. One of the most important events in the history of Crete, the Battle of Crete, is commemorated every year in May. The events begin on May 9- 10 and are completed on May 20th. They include speeches, exhibitions and concerts, while officials lay wreaths on the relevant war memorials. The presence of World War II veterans who participated in the Battle of Crete and arrive from England, Australia, New Zealand and France to participate in the events, never fails to make an impression. Since 2002, the descendants of German officers who fought in the battle are also invited. All the participants have hailed this as a sign of reconciliation sport ween former enemies.