🌸 August 15 in Cyprus: Faith, Festivities & the Perfect δώρο for Maria

August 15, known locally as Dekapentavgoustos, is one of the most important dates in the Cypriot calendar. It marks the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, a day of deep religious devotion, rich traditions, and lively community celebrations. It is also the name day for Maria and its many variations, making it a double celebration across the island.

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✝️ The Religious & Cultural Significance

In the Greek Orthodox tradition, the Assumption (or Dormition) of the Virgin Mary commemorates her “falling asleep” and ascent to heaven. In Cyprus, the two weeks leading up to August 15 are marked by the Dormition Fast, a period of prayer and spiritual reflection.

On the day itself, churches and monasteries dedicated to Panagia (All-Holy Mother) host solemn liturgies, icon processions, and gatherings that draw thousands of worshippers. Famous pilgrimage sites include Kykkos Monastery, Chrysoroyiatissa Monastery, Trooditissa, and Panagia Chrysospiliotissa in Deftera.

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🎉 What Happens on August 15

Beyond the religious services, the island bursts into celebration. Villages host panigyria which are traditional fairs filled with music, folk dancing, delicious Cypriot food, and a welcoming community atmosphere. The scent of souvla, kleftiko, and loukoumades fills the air, while local wines and zivania flow freely. Families reunite, friends gather, and the day becomes a blend of sacred meaning and joyful festivity.

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📍 Celebrations Across Cyprus

• Kykkos Monastery Feast

• Location: Troodos Mountains
• Date & Time: 15 August, morning liturgy starting around 7:00 AM
• Description: The island’s most famous monastery hosts a grand liturgy and draws thousands of pilgrims to venerate its miraculous icon of the Virgin Mary.
• Special Instructions: Arrive early and wear modest dress.
• Recommendations: Enjoy nearby Troodos trails and local produce.
• Link: Olympic Holidays – Kykkos Monastery

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• Chrysoroyiatissa Monastery Celebration

• Location: Panagia village, Paphos District
• Date & Time: 15 August, 8:00 AM service followed by wine tasting
• Description: Religious celebration paired with the monastery’s famous heritage wine.
• Special Instructions: Limited parking, consider arriving a day early.
• Recommendations: Visit nearby wineries and the village square.
• Link: Wikipedia – Chrysoroyiatissa Monastery

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• Panagia Chrysospiliotissa Feast

• Location: Deftera, Nicosia District
• Date & Time: 15 August, evening procession at 7:00 PM
• Description: UNESCO-listed cave church with a moving icon procession through candlelit tunnels.
• Special Instructions: Wear comfortable shoes.
• Recommendations: Explore Deftera village cafes before the procession.
• Link: Visit Cyprus – Chrysospiliotissa Feast

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• Trooditissa Monastery Service

• Location: Troodos region
• Date & Time: 15 August, 7:30 AM liturgy
• Description: A serene, less-crowded pilgrimage site with a miraculous icon.
• Special Instructions: Bring a light jacket.
• Recommendations: Have a picnic in the surrounding forest.
• Link: Wikipedia – Trooditissa Monastery

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• Panagia tou Sinti Feast

• Location: Xeros River Valley, Troodos foothills
• Date & Time: 15 August, morning liturgy
• Description: A restored 16th-century monastery with breathtaking views.
• Special Instructions: Drive carefully on rural roads.
• Recommendations: Ideal for photography.
• Link: Wikipedia – Panagia tou Sinti Monastery

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• Liopetri Village Fair

• Location: Ammochostos District
• Date & Time: 14–15 August, from 6:00 PM
• Description: Two-day festival with music, food, and traditional dance.
• Special Instructions: Arrive early as parking is limited.
• Recommendations: Try the local sheftalia.
• Link: Visit Cyprus – Liopetri Fair

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• Dionysia Wine Festival

• Location: Stroumbi, Paphos District
• Date & Time: 15–16 August, from 7:00 PM
• Description: Wine festival with grape-stomping, live music, and Cypriot delicacies.
• Special Instructions: Book accommodation nearby if you plan to drink.
• Recommendations: Do not miss the folk dancing shows.
• Link: Trip Experiences – Dionysia Wine Festival

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🎁 Name Days & The Tradition of Gifting

In Cyprus, name days are often celebrated more than birthdays. On August 15, thousands of women named Maria receive warm wishes such as "Χρόνια Πολλά, Μαρία" and a small δώρο as a token of love and respect. It is a beautiful way to blend the spiritual significance of the day with personal appreciation.

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💝 A Thoughtful Solution for Celebrating Maria

If you cannot attend in person, Gifting CY makes it simple to send love from anywhere. As a leading Online Gifts Cyprus provider, we offer carefully curated Gift box Cyprus selections with reliable Gift Delivery Cyprus to every corner of the island.

Surprise her with our specially designed Maria’s Name Day Gift Box. It is thoughtful, elegant, and made to impress.

📦 Same-day delivery in Larnaca is available via our Wolt store.

Make this Virgin Mary feast day one she will always remember, with faith, tradition, and a beautiful gift in one.