The Cultural Association of Garazo is organizing a brilliant three-day festival to celebrate its 45th anniversary and mark the 35th annual Pan-Cretan Citron Festival. Taking place from August 16th to 18th, 2025, in the village of Garazo, Mylopotamos, the event is dedicated to promoting the traditional cultivation and use of the Cretan citron, a fruit that is facing the risk of extinction. The festival will feature a rich program of cultural activities, including concerts by renowned artists, a unique culinary presentation, a theatrical performance, and a retrospective photo exhibition.

This year’s festival aims to highlight the versatility of the citron, connecting it with the culinary traditions of Constantinople (Polis). Internationally acclaimed Chef Maria Ekmektsioglou will be a special guest, presenting citron-based recipes that bridge Cretan produce with the gastronomy of Polis for the first time. The event also pays tribute to the 45-year history of the Cultural Association and the 35 years of the festival through a photography exhibition showcasing the work of the great 20th-century Cretan photographer, the late Michalis Nikiforakis. The festivities will be enhanced by major musical performances, including a concert by Georgia Dagaki, who distinctively blends Cretan and Greek art music, and a grand finale concert by the famous Greek singer Despina Vandi. The festival is supported by the Region of Crete, the Municipality of Mylopotamos, and the Rethymno Chamber of Commerce.

Event Program