The folk festival of Panagia Lympiani in Skyros is a special and cherished event for both locals and visitors to the island. Every year on September 8th, the faithful gather at the small church of the same name, situated in a picturesque location overlooking the vast blue of the Aegean Sea.
The day begins with the divine liturgy, where the faithful come to light a candle and seek the blessing of the Virgin Mary. After the service, the icon of Panagia Lympiani is carried in a procession around the church, in an atmosphere filled with reverence and devotion.
This is followed by a lively celebration where tradition meets the authentic hospitality of the people of Skyros. Traditional dishes, such as roasted goat, pies, and sweets, are accompanied by local wine, while locals and visitors alike dance and sing to the sounds of traditional music. The festival of Panagia Lympiani is not just a religious celebration but a vibrant expression of local culture and the sense of community that defines Skyros.