Christmas is here in Cyprus, with Christmas markets in the villages and turning on the Christmas lights in the towns. The snow won't come but we still know how to celebrate christmas.
Christmas in Cyprus is an enchanting blend of Mediterranean sun and alpine charm. For 2025, the island has transformed into a festive haven with a network of eight official "Christmas Villages," sparkling coastal marinas, and deep-rooted Orthodox traditions.
1. Explore the 2025 Christmas Villages
Between November 22, 2025, and January 6, 2026, eight picturesque villages have been selected by the Deputy Ministry of Tourism to host major festive events.
- Lefkara (SantaLefkara): Famous for its lace and silver, it hosts experiential embroidery workshops and a "Lefkara ttavas" (traditional food) festival on January 6.
- Agros: High in the Troodos Mountains, this village is known for its rose products and offers guided tours and rosewater distillation demonstrations.
- Deryneia (Strawberry Land): The "strawberry capital" features a giant strawberry statue dressed for Christmas and holds festive markets and cultural shows.
- New for 2025 – Kakopetria: A new addition to the official list, combining stone-built traditional charm with modern festive fairs and open-air concerts.
- Other Villages: Fikardou, Kalopanagiotis, Kyperounta, and Statos-Agios Fotios also host wooden chalets with local crafts and seasonal treats.
2. Must-Visit City Events & Markets
If you prefer a coastal vibe or city energy, 2025 offers several major highlights:
- Limassol Christmas Land: Located at the Old Port from November 21 to January 6, 2026, it features a Ferris wheel, rides, and seaside food courts.
- Ayia Napa Marina Christmas Village: Running until December 28, 2025, this seaside village includes an elves' workshop, live concerts, and a professional storytelling center.
- The Jolly Road (Nicosia): A brand-new Christmas market running from December 1 to January 8, 2026, with street food and handmade art.
- Larnaca Christmas Market: Held at Zouhouri Square across three weekends in December (12–14, 19–21, 26–28).
3. Traditional Flavors to Sample
Cypriot Christmas is a feast for the senses, particularly after the traditional 40-day fast.
- Melomakarona & Kourabiedes: These honey-soaked and almond-dusted cookies are staples in every household and bakery.
- Vasilopita: A special cake baked for New Year’s Day with a hidden coin. Whoever finds the coin in their slice is said to have good luck for the rest of 2026.
- Main Dishes: Traditionally, Christmas Day begins with Avgolemoni (egg-lemon soup) followed by Souvla (large chunks of meat barbecued on a spit) or stuffed turkey.
4. Unique Local Customs
- Ayios Vasilis: In Cyprus, the gift-bearer is St. Basil, not St. Nicholas, and presents are traditionally exchanged on January 1st rather than December 25th.
- Kalanda (Carols): On Christmas Eve, listen for children roaming the streets and squares to sing traditional carols in exchange for sweets or small coins.
- The Smashing of the Pomegranate: On New Year's Day, families smash a pomegranate on their doorstep to ensure prosperity for the coming year.