This weekend in Cyprus promises a variety of engaging activities, ranging from book festivals to spooky workshops, ensuring everyone finds something to enjoy. The highlight is the 15th International Short Film Festival of Cyprus, which opens on Saturday and runs until next Friday. The festival will feature screenings of selected short films at the Rialto Theatre as part of its National and International Competition, celebrating social issues and human stories while amplifying lesser-known voices.
Photo: cyprus-mail.com
Weekend: Celebrating the Art of Cinema
Alongside the film screenings, the festival includes panel discussions, workshops, and events tailored for all ages, making it a community-centric celebration. Attendees can expect both entertainment and thought-provoking content from talented filmmakers.
Musical Highlights Across the Island
In Paphos, the all-female a cappella group, Spellbound, will perform a special concert at the Church of Panayia Chrysoematousa Church Hall on Saturday evening. For those seeking a more electrifying experience, Limassol will host live performances by global stars Craig David, TS5, and Loreen on Saturday night at ETKO Limassol. This one-night-only concert is anticipated to be a significant draw for music lovers.
Celebrating Diversity and Creativity in Nicosia
The Intercultural Festival 2025 will take place in Nicosia, showcasing the creative talents of young migrant artists on Saturday evening. As part of the Co-Tailors for Future project, these emerging artists will present their works in a market and fashion bazaar at the Nicosia Municipal Theatre.
Literary Enthusiasts Gather at Nicosia Book Fest
This weekend also marks the annual Nicosia Book Fest, running from Friday to Sunday at Acropolis Park. The event will feature bookshops, authors, poets, educators, and artists presenting workshops, talks, and live entertainment programmes, making it a haven for literature fans.
Handmade in Cyprus: A Showcase of Local Talent
The 10th Handmade in Cyprus market returns, taking place at the European University Cyprus Cafeteria. Over 40 local artists will showcase their handmade creations over the course of two days. The market encourages creativity with various arts and crafts workshops available for attendees to try their hand at making their own items.
Family-Friendly Activities and Halloween Fun
In Limassol, the Paradox Museum will host pumpkin-carving workshops aimed at families, allowing participants to embrace the Halloween spirit. These workshops will take place throughout the weekend and the following two weekends, providing a fun and festive activity for families to enjoy together.
Medieval Festivities in Ayia Napa
The Ayia Napa Medieval Festival, celebrating its 20th edition, is a must-visit for those interested in history and folklore. Running until Sunday, the festival features performances by knights, dragons, and marching bands, transporting visitors back in time through various engaging displays.
Art and Wine Festivals in the Villages
Cyprus’ picturesque villages are also alive with weekend activities. The Artists of Lania will open their studio doors, inviting the public to experience live handpan music on Saturday. Lofou will host the Oeno Fest 2025, celebrating wine, tradition, and art from Friday to Sunday with a variety of performances, workshops, and markets.
Olive Tree Festival: A Celebration of Tradition
Concluding the weekend is the Ancient Olive Tree Festival in Paramali on Sunday. This festival is dedicated to the region’s rich olive heritage, featuring 30 exhibitors, children’s activities, live music, and traditional folklore dances, making it a fitting tribute to the island’s agricultural legacy.
Event Summaries
- 15th International Short Film Festival of Cyprus: October 11-17, Rialto Theatre, Limassol. www.isffc.com.cy
- Spellbound A Cappella Chorus: October 11, Church of Panayia Chrysoematousa Church Hall, Chloraka. 7pm. €12. Tel: 99-368913
- Craig David presents TS5 and Loreen Live: October 11, ETKO Limassol. 6pm. etkocyprus.com
- Intercultural Festival 2025: October 11, Nicosia Municipal Theatre, Nicosia. 6pm. [email protected]. Tel: 22-895137
- 10th Nicosia Book Fest: October 10-12, Acropolis Park, Nicosia. www.nicosiabookfest.com
- 10th Handmade in Cyprus Market: October 11-12, European University Cyprus Cafeteria, Nicosia. 11am-8pm. Facebook event: Handmade in Cyprus Market
- Halloween Workshop: October 11, 12, 18, 19 and 25, Paradox Museum, Limassol. 2pm-6pm. Registration needed. Tickets from €15. www.paradoxmuseumlimassol.com
- Ayia Napa Medieval Festival: Until October 12, Ayia Napa. www.agianapa.org.cy/el/
- Artists of Lania: October 11-12, Lania village, Limassol district. 11am-7pm. Free
- Oeno Fest 2025: October 10-12, Lofou Primary School, Lofou village. Friday: 7pm-11pm. Saturday-Sunday: 11am-11pm. www.agroescape.com
- Ancient Olive Tree Festival: October 12, Paramali, Limassol district. 11am-7.30pm
