KOUFONISIA LOCAL EVENTS

One of the biggest events is the celebration of Agios Georgios who is the protector of the island. Each year a resident, called «panigyras», passes round the icon to the whole island. Streets are strewn with flowers for the occasion, while the procession’s route is followed, from sea, by fishing boats until its return to the church.. Services are followed by a communal meal of boiled beef, which evolves into a traditional feast with singing and dancing in the taverns.
 
Holy Week and Easter are special for Koufonisia. On Good Friday, the island is illuminated by candles and the resurrection service at midnight on Saturday is followed by fireworks.

The Fisherman’s Feast on the last Saturday of June takes place in the streets and square of the island. Taverns and shops are closed so that everyone can join in a communal meal of fresh fish and fish dishes, washed down with wine and accompanied by music and dancing.
The celebration of Profitis Elias on July 20 is also observed with a feast and traditional songs.

On 15th of August, for the celebration of Panagia, most inhabitants of the island travel in Kato Koufonissi with fish boats to attend the church service. The inhabitants of the island after the service offer to all attendees’ fish fry (or sometimes a meal or lamb or goat). An innovative boat race takes place with the return of the boats in Koufonissi. Fishing boats race during the return; winners and losers trade toasts as the feast continues in the evening with music and dancing.