Kyrenia Events, Things to Do and Festivals 2014 / 2015

(Kyrenia, Cyprus)

Many of the national festivals and holidays in Kyrenia and Cyprus as a whole are on the same dates as Greece. However, there are also plenty of local events and Cypriot celebrations that take place in Kyrenia every year, particularly during the summer months. Look out for the lively events when the towns in North Cyprus harvest the crops of grapes, oranges and water melons, especially at the relatively nearby regions of Guzelyurt and Karpas.

Things to do and see range from yacht races and flower shows, to theatrical events and cultural music festivals. In particular, the spring and summer concerts at Kyrenia Castle and nearby Bellapais Abbey have earned themselves quite a reputation and both of these venues feature excellent acoustics.

Kyrenia Calendar of Festivals and Events 2014 / 2015: General Information

Particular festivals of note include the Kyrenia Jazz Festival, which is a relatively new event and attracts many renowned international jazz and blues musicians. Held each December at the famous Rocks Hotel and Casino, the Kyrenia Jazz Festival is gaining popularity and status year on year.

Still on the musical theme but classical this time, the annual Bellapais Music Festival is staged each May and June, and takes place in the adjoining village of Bellapais, within the abbey's Refectory Hall. In July, look out for the International Cyprus Theatre Festival, which is hosted by a number of towns and cities on the island. Expect to find theatrical performances and related events in not only Kyrenia, but also Famagusta, Nicosia and Salamis. These shows are often of a traditional Turkish theme and presented by international companies.

July is certainly a month for festivities, since the 20th July is Peace and Freedom Day, remembering the day in 1974 when Turkish military intervention ceased the violent struggle with the Greeks in North Cyprus. If you are here in mid-October, then be sure to join in the fun at the Kyrenia International Olive Festival, with features Cypriot and Turkish dancing, costumed parades, flags from around the world and plenty to eat and drink.