Tilos Festivals & Cultural Events

Many festivals on Tilos Island are deeply rooted in religious traditions and are dedicated to the island’s patron saints. These celebrations bring together locals and visitors to enjoy traditional music, food, and festivities, reflecting the island’s strong community spirit and cultural heritage.

Religious Feasts & Festivals

• Easter Celebrations
Like in most Greek islands, Easter is a major event on Tilos. Holy Week is marked by religious processions, candlelit services, and feasts with traditional dishes such as roasted lamb. The Resurrection service on Holy Saturday is followed by a joyous celebration with fireworks and local music.

• July 25th-27th
The most important festival on Tilos takes place from the 25th to the 27th of July in honor of Agios Panteleimon, the island’s patron saint. The three-day celebration is held at the Monastery of Agios Panteleimon, located in a scenic area on the western side of the island. The festival includes traditional live music, dancing, and an abundance of local food and wine. Pilgrims from across the Dodecanese visit the monastery to attend the religious service, while the festivities continue late into the night.

• July 28th
The Dance of the Grail, also known as the Koupa Festival, takes place in the courtyard of Agios Taxiarchis monastery in Megalo Chorio. The festival sees dancers perform a traditional folk dance, with the lead dancer holding a cup in their hand that the others try to fill with coins. The celebration is accompanied by local food and drinks.

• August 23rd
On August 23rd, a religious feast is held in honor of Panagia Kamariani in Megalo Chorio, the island’s capital. The celebration takes place at the charming chapel of Panagia Kamariani, where locals gather for a religious service followed by a traditional festival with music, dancing, and local delicacies.

Other Festivals & Cultural Events

Apart from religious festivals, Tilos hosts several cultural events, local fairs, and music gatherings that reflect its way of life. These events provide a wonderful opportunity to experience the authentic traditions of Tilos, meet the locals, and immerse yourself in the island’s peaceful yet vibrant atmosphere.

• Traditional Dance & Music Events
Throughout the summer, small-scale folk music nights and dance performances take place in Livadia and Megalo Chorio, where locals showcase traditional Dodecanese dances accompanied by live instruments like the lyre and lute.

• Cultural and Ecological Events
Tilos, known for its commitment to sustainability, also organizes ecological awareness events, including nature walks and birdwatching tours.