# 15 August Panigiria

> The **15 August**, the feast of the Dormition of the Theotokos, is the largest folk festival in Halkidiki after Easter. On **15 August** — and often the evening before — dozens of villages set up their own **panigiri** in the square, next to the church.  ## What is a panigiri like After the service 

## Quick facts

| Field | Value |
| --- | --- |
| Category | Religious |
| When | every year, August |
| Recurring | Yes, annually |
| Location | Σε όλη τη Χαλκιδική |
| Venue | Πλατείες χωριών και εκκλησίες |
| Area | mainland |
| Entry | Free |
| Coordinates | 40.375, 23.4378 |

> Note: exact dates for the current edition are announced yearly by the organisers; the window above is the recurring period.

## Description

The **15 August**, the feast of the Dormition of the Theotokos, is the largest folk festival in Halkidiki after Easter. On **15 August** — and often the evening before — dozens of villages set up their own **panigiri** in the square, next to the church.

## What is a panigiri like
After the service and the procession, the square fills with tables. **Live traditional music** plays — usually clarinet, violin, and drum — and the dancing continues until dawn. Local delicacies, grilled meat, and wine are served, and participation is open to all: no invitation is needed.

## Where to go
Many villages hold one, especially those with a church dedicated to the Virgin Mary. In the **inland villages** the tradition usually feels more alive than in the tourist resorts. The line-up changes every year, so ask at your accommodation or check the local municipality’s announcements.

## Practical information
- Fixed date: **15 August** every year.
- **Entry is free** — you only pay for food and drink.
- They start late (after 21:00) and last until morning.
- It is the peak demand period: book accommodation many months in advance.

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Source: <https://chalkidikihub.gr/en/events/panigiria-dekapentavgoustou>
Type: Event / Festival · Halkidiki, Greece