With a rich programme and the participation of cultural groups from the wider area, the “ARMENEIA 2025” Cultural and Athletic Events return with renewed energy this year. The festival will take place from Friday 1st to Tuesday 5th August 2025 in the historic village of Armenoi, Rethymno.

The event is organised by the Cultural Association of Armenoi, with the support of the Region of Crete – Rethymno Regional Unit, the Municipality of Rethymno – Sports Department, and the active participation of cultural associations from neighbouring communities (Ampelaki, Geni, Goulediana, Kares, Kastellos, Koumous, Myrthios, Oros, Seli, Somatas, Fotinos) as well as the Armenoi Women’s Volunteer Group.

A vibrant mix of events for all ages

Armenia 2025 blends tradition and sport, entertainment and learning, offering locals and visitors alike a five-day experience full of action, music, flavours and community spirit.

The festival kicks off on Friday 1 August with “Tastes of the World”, a multicultural culinary event featuring traditional dishes and live music by Nikos Lagoudakis and Ilias Gialytakis, performances by the traditional group Horokrites, and a market with handmade and local products.

On Saturday 2 August, the focus shifts to sports and games with cards and backgammon tournaments, along with various games for children and adults at the Association’s venue.

Road Races in Memory of Vangelis Giakoumakis

Sunday 3 August is dedicated to sports, highlighted by the emotional 12km memorial run for Vangelis Giakoumakis. The route begins in Seli (at the church of Ag. Evangelos) and ends in Armenoi. Two more races will take place the same day: a 2km children’s run and the Armenios Run (5km), both starting and finishing at the Armenoi Stadium. Participation in the children’s race is free, while the two main races (5km & 12km) require a 10€ fee.

Guided Tours, Cinema, and a Tribute to Local Heritage

Monday 4 August offers a visit to the village’s traditional olive mill, followed in the evening by an open-air screening of the film “The Exile” (O Apostratos) at the Armenoi Stadium, with free admission.

On Tuesday 5 August, the festival concludes with a guided tour of the Late Minoan Cemetery of Armenoi—one of the most important archaeological sites in Crete—and a tribute to archaeologist Giannis Tzedakis, who played a key role in the site’s discovery and research. The event is co-organised with the Ephorate of Antiquities of Rethymno, and the evening wraps up with a traditional music concert by Manolis Katsamas.

The Armenia festival aims to bridge the past with the present, celebrating collective memory and strengthening community bonds through culture, sports and solidarity.

All events will take place at the Cultural Association of Armenoi.

From 1 to 5 August, Armenoi becomes a meeting point of culture, tradition and community. Join us!

Two Festive Nights of Dance to Follow

• On 6 August, the Feast Day of the Transfiguration of Christ, a festive panigyri will take place at the Cultural Association’s venue with Cretan artist Giannis Giannakakis and his band.

• On 8 August, another dance night will follow with the well-known musician Nikos Gonianakis, again at the Association’s space.

Both events start at 9 p.m.
Entrance: 20€ including full dinner menu.