A summer vacation in Kardamena promises more than just swimming, sunbathing, and clubbing; it's a chance to engage in theater performances, attend concerts, explore visual art exhibitions, join traditional Greek dance masterclasses, and even partake in cycling and chess competitions. For instance, every August, the town hosts an annual festival in honor of St. Agio Ioanni (St. John).
On September 5th each year, a unique tradition unfolds across the island: the tossing of wreaths into the water at sunset. Each woman prepares two wreaths, one symbolizing the passing year and the other the year ahead. The old wreath is cast into the water, while the new one is placed at the water's edge to be touched by the waves forty times. Back at home, the new wreath is hung next to an icon, and water with small stones is sprinkled and left in room corners to safeguard the household from the evil eye.
April 23rd marks St. George's Day, celebrated with thrilling horse races in Pili. From July to September, the island hosts the Hippokratia festival, culminating in the recitation of the famous Hippocratic Oath.
During the initial days of August, Kardamena celebrates the Days of Honey, Fish, and Wine. During this period, the coastal taverns, already bustling, overflow with visitors. The tourist influx doesn't wane at night either: Kardamena's nightlife thrives year-round, with a local tradition of visiting at least three establishments in one evening. Typically, the evening begins in a tavern or bar and ends in one of the nightclubs along Paradise Beach. Many bars offer happy hour deals, and some might even greet you with a complimentary shot at the door. Among the top bars in town are Manolis Beach Bar, Origin Bar, The Jam Bar, Bliss Bar, Lush Bar, and Atheneon Bar.
