Simou AgroFest 2026. Cypriot Flavors, Crafts, and Free Entry

On Saturday, September 12th, the small town of Simou in the Paphos region will become a center of Cypriot flavors and traditions. During Simou AgroFest 2026, you'll be able to see how halloumi, anari, trachanas, and palouzes are made, and learn about ancient rural crafts.

The all-day festival will begin at 11:00 a.m. in Panagia Chryseleousa Square and run until 7:00 p.m. Organizers have prepared culinary demonstrations, a concert, dancing, local produce, horseback riding, and children's activities. Admission is free.

Halloumi, anari and trachanas prepared live

One of the main attractions of Simou AgroFest 2026 will be demonstrations of the traditional preparation of products that remain an important part of Cypriot cuisine to this day.

At noon, you'll be able to see ancient methods of threshing and milling wheat. Starting at 2:00 PM, there's a demonstration of preparing and cutting trachanas—a distinctive product made from fermented milk and wheat.

A demonstration of halloumi and anari production will begin at 4:00 PM. An hour later, attendees will watch palouzes, a traditional Cypriot dessert made with grape must, being prepared.

On-site, Chryso Lefou will also be preparing kattimerka – thin, traditional pancakes associated with Cypriot rural cuisine.

Ancient crafts of the Cypriot countryside

An exhibition of agricultural products, traditional tools, and handicrafts will open at 11:15 a.m. An exhibition of old photographs depicting Simou and guided tours of the village are also planned.

Visitors will see demonstrations of old craft techniques, including:

• basket weaving,
• making traditional items,
• making rosaries and beads,
• performing the Cypriot instrument pithkiavli,
• weaving and lace-making.

The program also includes an exhibition of farm animals and traditional agricultural tools. The exhibition aims to showcase not only local products but also the daily lives and work of the inhabitants of an ancient Cypriot village.

Attractions for children

Simou AgroFest will begin at 11:00 a.m. with an official opening. A children's workshop on cookie making and baking will also begin at the same time. Free refreshments will also be provided for the youngest participants.

A children's zone with painting and games will be available throughout the day. Also planned are:

• horse riding,
• children's train rides,
• opportunity to see farm animals,
• activities and shows for the whole family.

Thanks to the event starting before noon, you can come to the festival with your children without having to stay until the evening concert.

Traditional dances and live music

Traditional Cypriot dance performances will begin at 1:30 PM. Stefanos Pelekanis and his band will perform from 3:00 PM until the end of the event.

Part of the festival is also to be broadcast live by Cypriot radio station Zenith FM.

Throughout the day, you will be able to meet local producers at the stands, try regional products and buy goods related to agriculture and traditional crafts.

Where is Simou located?

Simou lies in the Paphos hinterland, near Polis Chrysochous. It takes approximately 40 minutes by car from central Paphos, depending on the route chosen and traffic.

The festival can be an opportunity for a day trip beyond the coast and the most popular tourist destinations. Those arriving by car should head to Panagia Chryseleousa Square in the center of the village.

If planning to travel by public transport, carefully check connections and return times beforehand. Buses to smaller towns in the region may run infrequently, especially on weekends.

A whole day of Cypriot traditions

Simou AgroFest 2026 aims to promote the region's agricultural heritage, local producers, and traditional cuisine. Unlike typical evening festivals, the event will last from morning to early evening and will offer a program also aimed at families with children.

The most interesting will be the demonstrations of preparation of products we usually buy ready-made. Here, you will be able to see the entire process of making halloumi, anari, trachanas, palouzes, and kattimerka – right in the Cypriot countryside and with the participation of local artists.

Sources: Visit Cyprus, Paphos Regional Board of Tourism.