Feast (Ofto and Antikristo)
Guests join villagers for a shared meal of lamb, sip raki and wine, enjoy folkloric music and dance, and experience Cretan hospitality.
Koures Sheep Shearing (Psiloritis)
Κούρες
Anogeia, Greece
May 30, 2026ExpectedSource
As summer begins, the Cretan village of Anogeia keeps Koures, the old sheep-shearing ritual in which shepherds gather friends and visitors at their mountain mitata to shear the lambs and roast meat. Pastoral life runs to the core of Anogeia, and the shearing marks the herders' yearly release into summer.
Media proof note
The Koures Sheep Shearing (Psiloritis) record is date-tracked, but stronger reviewed Field Guide media would make it easier to inspect.
About media standardsKey moments
Folk Music and Dancing
Spectating or joining in the dances performed by local artists dressed in traditional costume.
Sheep Shearing Ceremony
Visitors witness traditional shearing techniques up close and interact with shepherds during this communal work.
Where it happens
Shepherd’s Hut (Mitato) Anogeia
Anogeia, Greece
Open in MapsHow to show up well
Plan the timing
Sturdy shoes for mountain terrain
Dress for the setting
Modest, weather-appropriate clothing
Respect local boundaries
Local greetings in Greek (kalía mára)
Practical notes
Crowds & timing
Crowd level: moderate.
Tickets
Free events are available.
LOCAL COMMUNITY & FOLK LIFE
Koures Sheep Shearing (Psiloritis)
Κούρες
Anogeia, Greece
As summer begins, the Cretan village of Anogeia keeps Koures, the old sheep-shearing ritual in which shepherds gather friends and visitors at their mountain mitata to shear the lambs and roast meat. Pastoral life runs to the core of Anogeia, and the shearing marks the herders' yearly release into summer.
Media pendingMedia proof still incomplete
Under the radarStill under the radar
May 30, 2026Expected dates
Verified this year
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The story behind it
Sheep herding and pastoral life are central to Anogeia’s identity. Koura (shearing) signifies relief from winter work and prepares sheep for summer grazing. The festival connects villagers through ritual hospitality and feasting, reflecting Crete’s mountain culture.
Key moments to know
Feast (Ofto and Antikristo)
Guests join villagers for a shared meal of lamb, sip raki and wine, enjoy folkloric music and dance, and experience Cretan hospitality.
Folk Music and Dancing
Spectating or joining in the dances performed by local artists dressed in traditional costume.
Sheep Shearing Ceremony
Visitors witness traditional shearing techniques up close and interact with shepherds during this communal work.
How to show up well
first-timer tips
Plan the timing
Sturdy shoes for mountain terrain
Dress for the setting
Modest, weather-appropriate clothing
Respect local boundaries
Local greetings in Greek (kalía mára)
Essentials at a glance
Date window
May 30, 2026
Estimated
City / Area
Anogeia
Crete
Cost
Free public events available
Good for
Families welcome
Very High visitor welcome
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