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.
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.
The most authentic panigiria take place in the mountainous villages of the hinterland — Arnaia, Taxiarchis, Vavdos, Paleochori — where tradition is preserved more vividly than in tourist resorts. Coastal, large panigiria also take place in Ierissos, Nikiti, and Afytos.
Exact dates are announced each year by the organisers — confirm them before you travel.