Events in Heraklion
Apókreas (Carnival)
February/March
Though now overtaken in reputation by Réthymno’s Carnival, Heraklion’s is equally venerable and recently has experienced a small upsurge, with masquers (including, some years, foreign invited troupes) parading and partying.
Sheep blessing, Asi Gonia
April
On 23 April – or Easter Monday if Easter falls later – takes place the major bash in this pastoral community, on the border between Réthymno and Haniá provinces. George is the patron of shepherds, who bring hundreds of their charges to the village church to be blessed, and then milked, with the milk given away to spectators.
Wine Festivals
July-August
Heraklion is the centre of Cretan wine production, and many hill villages put on wine festivals in the summer, with free tasting and various exhibits laid on. Two of the most organised are at Dafnés (first half of July) and Arhánes (mid-August).
Heraklion Festival
July-September
Municipally sponsored concerts, dance and drama are staged in atmospheric outdoor theatres tucked into corners of the medieval walls.
Houdetsi Festival
August
Famed musician Ross Daly and his Lavyrinth Musical Workshop are the driving forces behind this showcase of traditional music, food and art in this hill village 23km south of Heraklion.