Get ready for an authentic Cretan gathering without mobile phones, marked by the spirit and authenticity of tradition.

Friday, July 24, 2026
Arrival time: 20:00

Location: Xirosterni, Apokoronas, at the site known as Xerosterna, next to the bronze commemorative plaque of the legendary Xirosterni lyra player Charilaos Piperakis (Kritikos), where the memory of the great artist continues to inspire and accompany every sound of the Cretan tradition.

Organized by: The Association of Xirosterni Residents of Athens-Piraeus and Surrounding Areas "I VIOLA"
Artistic Direction and Guidance: Giannis Megalakakis

The Association of Xirosterni Residents "I VIOLA" invites you on Friday, July 24, 2026, to a unique experiential evening in the beautiful and traditional village of Xirosterni in Apokoronas, entitled:

"Come Join Us for a Traditional Veggera in Xirosterni"

The "veggera", a symbol of authentic human communication, companionship and the sharing of emotions, returns this year with a special purpose: to reconnect the thread between generations through a humble and traditional gathering.

At a time when everyday life and technology often distance us from one another, we will switch off our mobile phones for a few hours and open our hearts instead.

Young and old alike will gather in a special corner of the village, away from digital reality. The elders will share stories, legends, experiences and memories of the place, passing on knowledge, values and collective memory to the younger generations.

The evening is dedicated to the traditions of Xirosterni and the wider Apokoronas region.

Traditional Cretan Treats

The women of the village will offer authentic traditional Cretan delicacies, featuring handmade flavours and local recipes prepared with care and using pure products from the Cretan land.

Music and Tradition

Under the artistic guidance of the distinguished teacher and researcher of Cretan tradition, Giannis Megalakakis, we will unite our voices and our steps in a simple circle of memory, respect and authentic expression.

Serenades and Mantinades

Once the gathering is complete, we will wander through the picturesque alleys of the village, singing traditional serenades and improvised mantinades, reviving images from another era.

We look forward to welcoming you all to experience together an evening of genuine communication, where people meet face to face, stories become bridges, and tradition continues to unite souls.

Come join us for a traditional Veggera in Xirosterni.