Navy Week

It is no surprise that Navy Week has become one of the most famous festivals of Greece people. Greece is a sea-faring country, thus they have a strong affinity towards the ocean. That is why, every year at the end of June, Greeks celebrate Navy Week, a week dedicated to the sea.

Navy Week in Crete celebrates the island's marine heritage with music, dancing, swimming, and sailing; the festivities are particularly large at Soudha, near Hania. The Miaoulia celebration in Hydra honors local naval hero Admiral Miaoulis and the role of the Hydriots to the War of Independence. It all comes to a head with a magnificent sound and light performance that includes the burning of a boat that portrays a Turkish cruiser and pyrotechnics over Hydra harbor. Celebrations are also held in Lesvos (Mytilini), Molyvos, and Kaloni.

Takes place: June 23 to June 24