Events & Festivities

1. Carnival Naoussa’s

Carnival is characterized by the traditional event “Genitsari and Boules,” alongside various cultural and gastronomic festivities. One such event is “Kernáme Naoussa” (“We Treat You to Naoussa”), a wine and gastronomy celebration held on the first Sunday of Carnival, where visitors can sample local delicacies paired with  Xinomavro wine from the region’s wineries. The “Friends of Naoussa Carnival” association offers traditional appetizers, while music and dance create an unforgettable festive atmosphere.

2. The Holocaust of Naoussa

Every year, on the Sunday after Easter (Thomas Sunday), the city honors the heroic sacrifice of its people against the Ottoman rule and their contribution to the struggle for independence. This historical event is why Naoussa is the only Greek city officially titled “Heroic” by royal decree in 1955. The commemoration includes a variety of cultural events.

3. Naoussa Summer Festival

A series of cultural and wine-related events take place during the summer in cultural and archaeological sites such as Aristotle’s School and the ancient theater of Mieza.

4. Street Food Festival – Wine Edition

Every September, the city of Xinomavro hosts a three-day celebration of street food culture. Renowned chefs create dishes inspired by Xinomavro wine, accompanied by cultural and musical performances.

5. Naoussa – City of Wine

A three-day wine event organized by the Naoussa Winemakers Association, which celebrated its 10th anniversary in 2025 with a special exhibition on wine and a conference on wine tourism.

Apart from these major events, other notable traditions include the distillation season of traditional tsipouro (October), celebrations for World Xinomavro Day (November 1st), and organized wine and mountain excursions available year-round.