Festivals are a key feature in the Larnaka region’s cultural calendar and springtime is no exception. The annual Anthestiria and Kataklysmos festivals, held on 06 May and 25-30 May respectively, offer visitors a glimpse into the unique traditions of the region and a chance to celebrate the region’s most colourful season.
Anthestiria (06 May) is the spring Flower Festival, which dates back centuries to Pagan times and honours nature’s most ‘alive’ season. A brightly coloured parade of fragrant flower floats starts from the palm tree promenade in Larnaka at 6pm, and makes its way through the major streets of the town centre. The parade culminates with a complimentary entertainment programme on the Seafront Stage at 7.30pm.
Kataklysmos (25-30 May) is the Festival of the Flood, which is held to mark Pentecost, and also has roots in various other religious and pagan water-based traditions and legends. Larnaka city holds the biggest celebration on the island, which has been taking place annually for over 100 years, earning it a place on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage List.
During Kataklysmos, the promenade is lined with an eclectic array of stalls; kiosks where craftsmen demonstrate local pastimes and a funfair on the beach. There is also an entertainment programme that takes place on the Seafront Stage and Europe Square with acts ranging from school children to celebrities, folkloric and modern music and dance, and the traditional Cypriot rhyming slang poems ‘Tsiatista’.
The 4* Palm Beach Hotel and Bungalows is a great base for enjoying these festivals and for a spring break to find sunshine and a distinctive warm welcome. Located on the coast just outside of Larnaka this luxury hotel has been renovated and refurbished with great attention to detail and offers five star facilities and services. Newly launched is the Palm Spa and Leisure Club where guests can relax and enjoy Elemis products for both body and facial treatments, sauna and Jacuzzi plus a chance to try out all the new equipment in the gym. The hotel also offers sporting activities such as squash and swimming, plus a Water Sports Centre on the beach where guests can try windsurfing, scuba diving, paragliding or sailing.
A seven night holiday for two in May starts from €980 per room, based on two people sharing a garden view room and including breakfast.
Book the Palm Beach Hotel & Bungalows direct on T: +357 24846600 or log onto www.palmbeachhotel.com
For more information on what to do and see in Larnaka visit: www.larnakaregion.com
