Dormition of the Virgin
August
In and around Markópoulo village church, this is quite possibly the most bizarre version of this important pan-Hellenic holiday. Annually, on or around 15 August, numerous small harmless snakes appear, said in legend to be the nuns of a vanished local convent so transformed to avoid being abducted by pirates. They of course bring luck to the villagers.
Ágios Gerásimos Monastery Pilgrimages
August and October Gerasimos, although not born on Cephalonia, is the much-loved patron saint of the island, and his relics are kept at the eponymous monastery near Frangáta. On 15-16 August and 19-20 October especially, devout pilgrims come to kiss the cloth-covered feet of the man, removed partially from his habitual sarcophagus and perched in a vertical position.
Wine Festival
August
Each August, Frangáta village hosts a three-day wine-tasting bash, conveniently after the Ágios Gerásimos feast, with robóla wine of course assiduously promoted.
International Argostóli Music Festival
August
Greek and international artists perform at various venues (some outdoor) in the island capital.
Lixoúri Music Festival
September
The big bash in the island's second town, with the local filarmonikí (brass band), which runs a music school here, duly prominent.