Independence Day
25 March
Military events and parades mark this public holiday that commemorates the start of the 1821 uprising against Turkish rule.
Greek Orthodox Easter
April/May
As on the Greek mainland, Easter is celebrated with gusto by many on Rhodes, with festivities taking place all around the island. Easter Sunday is when the crowds, events and processions reach their peak.
Rhodes Flower Festival
May
The beautiful environs around Mandraki Harbour come alive with spring colour in late May, as the Rhodes Flower Festival comes into bloom. As well as flower-decked floats and dazzling floral displays, the festival is a great opportunity to sample a tasty selection of local cuisine and wine.
Medieval Rose Festival
May/June
The medieval times are brought to life at this annual festival that has been going since 2006. The Medieval Rose Festival takes place in late spring, and sees the Old Town of Rhodes transformed into a mass of colourful scenes featuring costumed performers, re-enactments and skilled craftsmen.
Festival of the Honourable Cross
September
This lively festival takes place in the village of Kalithies, 15km south of Rhodes Town. Celebrating the village’s patron saint, Stavros, visitors to this popular event will mingle with the locals, who take part in traditional Greek dance, music and feasts.