About the festival
Old farming practices, traditional crafts, authentic Cypriot flavors, and children's activities combine to create a full-day celebration in the countryside.
A journey into the tastes, arts, and images of old Cypriot rural life awaits us in Statos-Agios Fotios. The 14th Agricultural Festival "In the Footsteps of Tradition" will take place on Sunday, September 20, 2026, starting at 11:00, highlighting the folk heritage and way of life of previous generations.
While old agricultural practices have largely been abandoned, there are still people in the villages of Cyprus who preserve the relevant knowledge and techniques. The festival provides a platform for them to present these to the public and, crucially, to pass them on to younger generations through a lively, experiential event.
Visitors will have the opportunity to observe old farming tasks rarely seen today. These include plowing the field with an aratrum and oxen, and threshing barley with a 'doukani,' a traditional tool pulled by oxen or mules.
The old method of planting vines using a Y-shaped wooden stick will also be demonstrated. These practices are closely linked to the region's agricultural history, revealing the ingenuity and deep knowledge of rural people.
As part of the festival, there will be an exhibition of traditional tools, agricultural equipment, and objects from old professions. Through the exhibits, the public will gain a more complete picture of the daily life, hard work, and customs of people in Cypriot villages.
Culinary tradition will hold a special place in the event. Visitors can tour local wineries and taste different wine varieties, getting to know the viticultural identity of the area better.
At the festival stalls, the preparation of many beloved Cypriot products and delicacies will be showcased. Palouzes, soutzoukkos, zivania, trachanas, halloumi, anari, fresh bread, and resi will be joined by tsamarella, spoon sweets, koulourouthkia with epsima, and katimerka, creating a rich mosaic of flavors.
The festival also caters to families, with face painting, inflatables, watercolor painting, and pottery available for younger visitors. These activities will allow children to play, create, and learn about aspects of tradition in an enjoyable way.
The day will conclude with a music program, traditional songs, and dances, transforming the event into a grand village gathering. It's a wonderful opportunity for an autumn excursion to the Paphos district and a meaningful encounter with the flavors, labors, and stories of another era.
Information: Sunday, September 20, 2026, Statos-Agios Fotios, Paphos district, from 11:00.