Varkarola

Each year in Paleokastritsa, one of the main highlights of the summer takes place in August. This day of celebration, which starts with services in the small church of Aghios Spiridion, culminates in the Varkarola which is held in the evening. Specatators gather early to ensure they have a good viewing point. It is a night to remember and a camera is a must.

Although the programme of events can change from year to year it follows a fairly standard format. The evening starts with a parade from the Marina area towards the Monastery, led by cheerleaders from one of the local dance schools accompanied by the local band. After this all the action takes place on the beach where there is a raised platform, bars and food stalls. There is a display of local Corfiot dances performed by the Krini dance group in their traditional costumes. (Many of the jackets worn are well over 100 years old and have been passed down over the generations to the current dancer in the family.) There is also a performance by the local Lakones choir who often, weather permitting, arrive by torch-lit boat. Sometimes a guest soloist will perform with the choir. The local philarmonic orchestra will then take to the stage and perform a selection of well known Corfiot and Greek melodies.

The highlight of the evening takes place once darkness has completely fallen and is a re-enactment of Odysseus' battle with Poseidon and his subsequent discovery by Nausika. Small boats enter the bay in a torch-lit procession. The sight is truly spectacular with the flares from the battle putting a red glow over the water followed by the fairy light effect of the torch-lit boats.

To complete the pageant the local council lays on a fantastic firework display that has everyone enthralled. After the end of the organised show it is time to dance the night away at a Beach Party with music from one of the island's top DJs. It is the highlight of the summer and definitely a night not to miss.