The Tselementes Festival in Artemonas of Sifnos, the only festival of Cycladic gastronomy in the Cyclades, takes place annually in September.
This festival, internationally recognized, lasts for three days, specifically on the 14th, 15th, and 16th of September in 2023.
In the central square of Artemonas, delegations from the Cyclades islands, as well as other regions of Greece and abroad, gather to showcase traditional recipes from their respective places. These recipes are presented in the “kitchen of Tselementes,” centrally located so that visitors can observe the cooking process. At the delegations’ stands, visitors can enjoy samples of various treats representing the flavors of each place.
An exciting highlight of the festival is the participation of young children known as the “Tselementakia”. These little cooks, donning caps and colorful aprons, engage in cooking their own recipes under adult supervision, blending playfulness with culinary creativity.
The festival opens its doors to the public daily at 18:00. Each day concludes with music and dance performances featuring traditional songs from Sifnos and other islands, starting at 21:30. Entrance to the festival is free, and complimentary food is provided to attendees. You are cordially invited to join!
In addition to the main festivities, there are parallel events that further enhance the experience. These include presentations of traditional customs and arts such as pottery and basket weaving, imitation of traditional weddings, a small bazaar offering products and treats from the participating islands (located in the narrow street of Artemonas), and an exhibition of folklore material at the “Yannis Atsonios” alley in Artemonas, opposite the Panagia of Balis. Moreover, photography and painting exhibitions can be found at the primary school of Artemonas and the Cultural Centre of Sifnos “Marianthi Simou.”
Furthermore, as part of the three-day festival, local associations by the sea demonstrate the preparation of Sifnian recipes and provide local delicacies in an event known as “sea cooking.”
Don’t miss out on this incredible celebration of Cycladic gastronomy and cultural heritage!
