A Festival for all Ages
The Mandarin Festival in Arakapas village in Cyprus celebrates vibrant culture, community, and agricultural heritage. Nestled in the Troodos Mountains, Arakapas offers the perfect setting for this lively annual event. The festival takes place every February, during the Mandarin harvest season. Visitors and locals gather to enjoy this unique celebration.
An Early Start with Activities and Entertainment
The event overflows with activities and entertainment that highlight the charm of Arakapas and its mandarins. Farmers proudly showcase baskets of freshly picked fruit, filling the air with a sweet aroma. Stalls brim with mandarin-inspired products like fresh juice, jams, desserts, and beauty items. Artisans and craftspeople contribute handmade goods that reflect Cypriot traditions.
A colourful parade kicks off the festival. Participants wear costumes inspired by mandarins, while traditional music and dancing energize the atmosphere. Locals and visitors cheer as the procession winds through the streets, spreading joy and excitement.
Live Performances
Live performances bring energy to the event. Musicians play traditional instruments like the bouzouki and lute, while folk dance troupes captivate the audience. Contemporary performers add variety, appealing to younger visitors. An open-air stage with a stunning mountain backdrop enhances the experience.
Food lovers indulge in dishes that feature mandarins as a star ingredient. Local chefs prepare savoury options like mandarin-glazed meats alongside sweet
treats such as tarts and cakes. Cooking demonstrations invite visitors to learn creative ways to use mandarins at home.
Workshops and Activities for All
Workshops and activities engage attendees of all ages. Children enjoy crafts, games, and storytelling sessions, while adults attend workshops on mandarin cultivation. Farmers share insights into traditional techniques and sustainable practices, deepening appreciation for their hard work.
Guided orchard tours introduce visitors to the journey of mandarins from tree to table. Farmers explain how the unique conditions in Arakapas—fertile soil, abundant sunlight, and high elevation—produce mandarins with exceptional flavour and quality.
Support to the Local Community
The festival supports the local community by boosting small businesses and showcasing the area’s heritage. Residents take pride in sharing their traditions and the event strengthens bonds among villagers who work together to ensure its success.
Lively Entertainment and Warm Hospitality
plays a key role in the festival. Organizers promote reusable and biodegradable materials to minimize
waste. Educational displays teach visitors about environmental responsibility, encouraging them to reduce their ecological footprint.
The Mandarin Festival in Arakapas combines delicious food, lively entertainment, and warm hospitality. Visitors leave with bags of mandarins and cherished memories of a celebration that reflects the spirit of Cyprus.
