Lefkada, a pioneer in cultural institutions since the mid-20th century, continues to uphold the traditions it established with the Literary and Arts Celebrations in 1955 and the International Folklore Festival in 1962. Conceived by the late Antonis Tsevelekis and warmly embraced by the local community, the Festival soon grew into a landmark cultural event of international stature. From its inception, its aim has been the meeting of cultures, communication through music and dance, and the promotion of peace and fellowship among nations.
Each August, the streets of Lefkada are filled with color, sound, and rhythm, as folklore ensembles from across the world join local groups in a grand celebration of tradition. From the legendary 1964 appearance of Maria Callas at the Literary and Arts Celebrations, to the now-established “Dance of Peace,” the Festival has etched indelible memories into the history of the island and the hearts of both residents and visitors.
On Sunday, August 24, 2025, the 63rd International Folklore Festival of Lefkada will commence. Its highlight, the grand parade of ensembles, will take place at 7:00 p.m. along the pedestrian street, from Agios Minas to the Open Theater of Lefkada. This year’s parade will feature nine international folklore groups from France, Italy, Spain, Costa Rica, Montenegro, Mexico, Poland, Serbia, and Chile, as well as five ensembles from Lefkada itself: “Orfeas Lefkadas,” “Apollon Karyas,” “Nea Chorodia Lefkadas,” “Fotinos Sfakioton,” and the Lefkada Dance Club.
Later that evening, at 9:00 p.m., the opening ceremony will be held at the Open Theater, featuring a brief presentation by all participating ensembles. For an entire week, Lefkada will once again become a meeting point of cultures, where dance and music serve as a universal language of peace and friendship.
