In Elafonisos the traditional island color remains unchanged. The islanders keep the customs and traditions they inherited. The naval tradition of the inhabitants, their traditions and customs are manifested through religious, historical, cultural and social events.
Anniversaries of July 6 & Opening of Holy Trinity Church of St. Spyridon – Three-days celebrations
Every year, anniversaries of July 6, 1850, “Union of Elafonisos with Greece” and July 9, “Opening of the Holy Church of Saint Spyridon” celebrated by Elafonisos residents, visitors and friends of the island. On July 6, 1850, an agreement was signed between Greece and England, with which Elafonisos joined officially and definitively to Greece. On 9 July we celebrate the religious anniversary of the opening of the Holy Temple of Saint Spyridon, the patron saint of Elafonisos, a fact that is inextricably linked to the modern history of the place. In the events Elafonisos residents are honored , who, through struggles and sacrifices, have shaped the newer history of Elafonisos Municipality area. Double anniversary of July 6th & 9th is held every year and is one of the few island holidays, established by a special Presidential Decree (54/2003).
Virgin Mary of Katonissiotissa Festival – 15th August
Every year on August 15, in Kato Nisi, at the Holy Church of Virgin Mary of Katonissiotissa and immediately after the Divine Liturgy, a big folk festival takes place in celebration of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary. In the afternoon of the same day the celebration continues with presentation of traditional country dances from Elafonisos Women’s Dancing Group, but also by the traditional dance of the children of the place. On the eve evening people gather in the church for the vigil. A typical custom is the gathering of young people to stay the night on the beach of Panagia. Children light fires, they dance and sing until dawn. Until recently, the feast of Virgin Many in Elafonisos, attended by many people from Mani and Kithira arriving on the island with the boats.
The Fisherman’s Festival – Last 10 days of August
The “Fisherman’s Festival” is an established tradition for Elafonisos, the island with one of the largest fishing fleets. Fishing, as the main occupation of Elafonisos residents, acted decisively in shaping the physiognomy of the place and the culture of residents of Elafonisos, and has been the beginning of the tourist and economic development in recent years.