Elos Chestnut Harvest and Festival in Crete 2025
Sweet roasted chestnuts, a beautiful, elated atmosphere, and local spirits await you in Crete in the fall
Best time: late October–early November
Autumn in Crete is one of the best seasons. This is the time for grape harvest, wine, and raisin making. What's more, autumn is the chestnut season. For many years locals honour the harvest by arranging and celebrating Chestnut Festivals.
One of the best events is held in the small Cretan village of Elos. The main feature of the event is different dishes made with chestnuts. Besides, you can enjoy beautiful live music, folk dances, and taste the famous Cretan spirit—tsikoudia. Also during the festival, you can have a chance to discover traditional Greek costumes, partake in different competitions, and have lots of fun.
The festival is celebrated every year between late October and early November when chestnuts are in abundance. The exact date of the festival depends on the weather and usually is announced a few days before the event. Visiting the festival is a great opportunity to spend time with local people, enjoy nature, tasty dishes, and celebrate the arrival of fall.