If you’re starting to feel the usual summer slog, you know, work, chores, maybe a little too much sunburn, don’t sweat it. Cyprus has your back with a string of music festivals ready to whisk you away from the daily grind and into some seriously good vibes. Whether you’re a local looking for a night out or a visitor wanting to soak up some authentic island culture, there’s something for every ear (and every dance move) over the rest of August and early September.
And the best part? These aren’t just Nicosia-centered; mountain villages and beach towns are joining the party too.
A fresh spin on tradition: “Musical journey into tradition”
Thanks to the Cultural Decentralization Program 2025, four communities are getting a modern twist on traditional Cypriot music. Picture classic Cypriot songs, but with a jazzy breath of fresh air, a quintet of wind instruments, piano, and vocals bringing new life to old favorites.
Catch the show in Lysos on August 11, Statou-Agios Fotios on August 12, Akapnou on September 6, and Kelokedara on September 7. Bonus: it’s all free. Yes, free.
Cyprus meets Crete: A cross-cultural music jam
How about a little island fusion? Four young musicians are teaming up to blend traditional tunes from Cyprus and Crete, creating a unique sound that’s equal parts familiar and fresh.
Their tour stops include Platanistasa (Aug 13), Tris Elies (Aug 16), Spilia (Aug 22), and Pyrga (Sept 6). Again, no cover charge.
Vasilis Lekkas brings the classics and new ballads
Big news for fans of Greek music legends! Vasilis Lekkas is coming to Cyprus, sharing songs from his collaboration with the iconic composer Manos Hadjidakis, plus tracks from his latest album, “The Ballads of August,” featuring music by Vasos Argyriidis and poetry by Dionysis Karatzas. Special guest Anita Constantinou will also perform songs with lyrics by Cypriot poets.
Catch these soulful shows in Spilia (Aug 14), Salamiou (Aug 15), and Kellaki (Aug 16). Free entry again, because good music should be for everyone.
25 years of the Paradise Jazz Festival, still cool, still swinging
The Paradise Jazz Festival celebrates its 25th anniversary this year with over 30 musicians across four performances. Highlights include bassist Xavi Castillo from Barcelona jamming with three Cypriot artists, the Limassol Jazz Syndicate, and performances by the Kickers Band Quintet, teenage piano prodigy Daphne Koula, and the band Macumba.
The party’s at Val’s Place in Yialia, Paphos, on August 22 and 23. Tickets are €25 per night or €45 for both nights, a small price for world-class jazz.
Septemberfest: Big names, bigger fun
As summer winds down, Nicosia heats up with Septemberfest at Akademias Park in Aglantzia from September 2 to 8. The lineup reads like a who’s who of Greek music: Pyx Lax, Nikos Makropoulos, Locomondo, Stelios Rokkos, Kostis Maraveyas, Panos Mouzourakis, Nikos Apergis, and Christos Mastoras with Melisses.
Each night costs just €10, basically a steal for a week of legendary performances.
So, whether you want to chill with some jazz, discover new takes on tradition, or dance your heart out to big-name Greek stars, Cyprus has your summer nights covered. Get out there and enjoy the soundtrack of the season!
