Xiropigado, Arcadia, a picturesque seaside village in Kynouria, hosts a series of traditional festivals and cultural events every year, showcasing the local heritage and strengthening the sense of community. Among the most important are the Olive and Olive Oil Festival and the Feast of Saint Panteleimon.
The Olive and Olive Oil Festival is organized by the Xiropigado Cultural Association "AKTIVION". The event takes place on September 27 and 28 at the Xiropigado Elementary School. The first day features the Open Academy of Olive Cultivation, aiming to enhance the olive-growing skills of local farmers. On the second day, local delicacies based on olives are offered, and there is an exhibition of professionals and olive product producers. The festival concludes with live music.
The Feast of Saint Panteleimon takes place on July 26, the eve of the Saint’s day. A church service is held at the small chapel of Saint Panteleimon, followed by a traditional celebration with food, music, and dance. This event is especially cherished by both locals and visitors.
Xiropigado also hosts various cultural events throughout the year. For example, in September 2023, a Greek Night was held at Kalolimano of Xiropigado, featuring traditional and artful music by the band "Mia Banda". This event was free and open to the public, supporting local community programs.
The festivals and cultural events in Xiropigado, Arcadia, form an important part of local tradition and offer visitors a unique opportunity to experience authentic Greek hospitality and culture. If you happen to be in the area during these celebrations, it’s definitely worth attending for a memorable experience.