Folklore feasts and Celebrations

On 2nd February the feast of Panagia Flevariotissa is the main winter gathering of the people of Astypalea.
It is when they congregate to celebrate with traditional dances, food and abundant supplies of wine.
The largest feast on the island takes place on 15th August in honour of Panaghia Portaitissa lasting from 14th - 16th August. On the first evening, on the eve of the feast, following vespers there is a celebration in the grounds of the church. On the feast day itself outside the church stuffed lamb known as 'lambrianos' is usually cooked. All visitors and friends of the island are invited and the costs are paid by the Municipality. On the following day sporting events take place held by the Municipality and the Cultural Association. These games known as the "Koukania" include swimming, a game where blindfolded competitors feed each other yoghurt and 'petino' where a false cockerel is tied to the end of a wooden pole smeared with grease. The aim of the game is to see who can reach the cock first walking over the grease. On 4th September the icon of the Virgin Portaitissa and the remains of Blessed Anthimos are paraded around Hora terminating outside the Town Hall. Following this they are carried to the house of those celebrating their name day where the house is then blessed. A party follows. On 8th September Panaghia Thomiani is celebrated at Vathy where food and wine is served up. This is followed by traditional dancing. Panaghia Poulariani is celebrated on 8th September and Agios Dimitrios on 26th October.
Agios Panteleimon is celebrated on 27th July and Christ the Saviour on 6th August with traditional sweet being prepared.