Greek Summer Easter.

The Assumption of the Virgin Mary has been celebrated on Paros, the island of Panagia, for more than 1500 years. In the holy church of Panagia Ekatontapyliani or Katapoliani religious ceremonies are held surrounded by festive events that attract Greeks and tourists from all over the world. Paros celebrates its Virgin Mary every year with special splendor and reverence.

At the Holy Pilgrimage of Panagia Ekatontapyliani, thousands of believers arrive every year and worship Her Grace, with special devotion. The Divine Liturgy, which is held with all solemnity, is followed by the great parade and the procession of the miraculous icon through the streets of Parikia.

In the evening, the celebrations for Her Grace continue with illuminated boats that start from Naoussa in the direction of Parikia. There they gather, where a greeting to Panagia follows, with horns from the boats in an overwhelming atmosphere. Dozens of fireworks and sparklers light up the port of Parikia, marking the beginning of the biggest feast on the island.

Afterwards, the whole of Paros gathers at the beach of Parikia in Agios Konstantinos, to admire the events. Traditional dances by local bands excite the crowd. All together as a group, they celebrate with endless dancing, traditional island songsand local delicacies until the early hours of the morning. If you find yourself on our island on August 15, it is worth visiting the church of Ekatontapiliani and feasting with the locals until the morning.