Trawl (Gillnet) Festival of VasilikiΓιορτή Παγανίας (Γρι-γρι) Βασιλικής

A unique maritime festival, the Trawl Festival is held annually on August 6 in the port village of Kato Vasiliki, Nafpaktia. Organized by the local cultural association, it celebrates traditional fishing with a live demonstration of building a gillnet (παγανιάς). Villagers and visitors assist in weaving the net through a communal effort, then gather for a fish feast. Sardines and small fish caught in the day's output are grilled on the beach and served with local wine at communal tables. The event is a hands-on cultural experience linking attendees to the region’s fishing heritage 1.

Kato Vasiliki is a small fishing hamlet; this festival preserves and showcases the traditional craft of making a 'pagania' (drift net). It highlights the relationship of the community to the sea and harvest of fish. The festival fosters community pride in maritime skills passed down through generations. It also serves as an educational event, especially for younger residents, to learn the old fishing techniques. Tourists are welcome to help. The festival underscores the coastal lifestyle of the Gulf of Corinth region.