WHO WE ARE
The Cultural Association of Apolakkia was created by the need of the residents to keep the cultural and social life of the village alive. Based on collectivity, volunteerism and love for the place, the Association is active throughout the year, actively contributing to the preservation of customs and local identity.
Through cultural, social and recreational activities, the Association brings people of all ages together, strengthening the sense of participation and community. Events, celebrations, musical evenings and volunteer activities are part of a common effort based on cooperation and contribution.
The Cultural Association of Apolakkia is governed by an elected Board of Directors, which is composed of members of the village with active participation and willingness to contribute. The Board of Directors includes:
President, Vasilis Peros
Vice President, George Mikkiou
Treasurer, Manolis Gerontis
Secretary, Savvas Nakkas
Members: Manolis Savvis, Katerina Karatzia, Stella Konstantinidou, Matoula Savvidi, and many other volunteers.
The operation of the Association is based on the cooperation of the members and the participation of volunteers, who contribute to the organization and implementation of the actions and events. At the same time, the operation and development of the Association's website is technically supported by Stathis Poullis, responsible for the online presence and technical support of the Association. The initial idea for the creation of the website was proposed by the former Mayor of South Rhodes, Manolis Savvis. The Cultural Association also collaborates closely with the Local Community of Apolakkia with President, Tsambikos Karagiannis, with the common goal of strengthening the cultural and social life of the village.
The goal of the Apolakkia Cultural Association is to keep alive the connection with tradition, to support modern cultural expression and to create opportunities for meeting and communication for residents and visitors of the village.
CULTURAL ASSOCIATION OF APOLAKIA
01
Actions and events
Organization and promotion of local cultural events
Throughout the year, the Cultural Association of Apolakkia organizes and supports cultural, social and recreational events that strengthen the cohesion of the local community and keep the customs of the place alive.
Among other things, the following are organized:
- 1) The Watermelon Festival
- 2) Summer Beach Party
- 3) Music Nights
- 4) Dance parties, traditional celebrations and customs
The Watermelon Festival, a summer event that usually takes place in the village square, where residents and visitors enjoy watermelon, music and a festive atmosphere, with the aim of promoting and promoting the local watermelon, offering free cool slices and souvenirs.
Every summer, in the month of August, the Cultural Association of Apolakkia organizes a multi-day summer event at Limni beach (2 km away from the village) that has become a reference point for the area. The three-day+ beach party includes: Live music and DJ sets – Food and drinks – Possibility of camping with overnight stays on site – Entertainment games and activities for young and old – Relaxed summer atmosphere by the sea and much more…
The event brings together residents, visitors and friends of the village, creating a lively meeting point during the summer.
The Musical Evenings of the Cultural Association of Apolakkia occasionally host well-known and beloved names of the Greek music scene, offering quality entertainment and special moments to the audience.
In the past, the bar "Pera Vrechi" also played an important role in the village's nightlife, where themed evenings and events were organized, such as the well-known White Party, which left their own mark on the summer entertainment of Apolakkia.
The Cultural Association of Apolakkia organizes and supports dance parties and traditional festivals, keeping alive the village's customs and traditions. These events are a meeting point for residents and visitors and contribute to the continuation of local tradition.
Particular importance is given to participation in and support of religious festivals and holidays, which are directly linked to the history and cultural identity of Apolakkia. Through cooperation with the local community and residents, these events maintain their authentic character.
During Christmas and New Year's, the Association actively contributes to the preservation of festive customs, participating in actions and events that enhance the festive atmosphere and bring the local community closer together. These celebrations are an opportunity for meeting, offering and joint celebration.
A special place in the Association's activities is occupied by Easter, where a great local custom is revived that unites the entire village. Two large bonfires are lit, with the village symbolically divided into Katomerites and Panomerites, depending on the entrance followed to the church.
At all events, the village offers souvlaki and refreshments for all attendees.
02
Religious and local festivals
The Association supports and actively participates in festive events associated with local religious tradition.
In Agia Marina, on the eve of July 17
In Agios Georgios, on the eve of Pentecost
In Agios Efstathios, on September 20
In Asomatos, on Easter Monday
These events constitute an important part of the cultural identity of Apolakkia and keep alive the connection of the village with its customs and traditions.
03
Participation and volunteering
The operation of the Cultural Association is based on the voluntary contribution and participation of the members and friends of the village.
Every idea, every help and every new participation contributes to the continuation and development of our actions. Thanks to this collective effort, the village has managed to implement important actions, from tree planting and interventions in the natural environment, to the organization of successful festivals and events that unite the local community.
A special place in the life of the village is also held by local customs, which are maintained with the participation of all generations. The Kalafounoi of Easter, the Afales of Bright Monday, the Kamouzeles of Carnival, the Performance of Clean Monday, the Motorcycles without exhaust on New Year's Day and the Carols of the new generation are moments that keep the tradition alive and are passed on from the oldest to the youngest.
The participation of everyone remains the force that keeps the Association alive and gives perspective for the future.
04
Our Goal
The Goals of the Apolakkia Cultural Association are:
- The preservation of cultural heritage
- Strengthening the social life of the village
- Collaboration with residents, organizations and visitors
- Creating events open to everyone