17th Apolakkia Watermelon Festival Rhodes July 2025: Authentic Greek Summer Experience
Experience the 17th Apolakkia Watermelon Festival: Rhodes’ Most Authentic Summer Celebration
Apolakkia is renowned throughout Greece for its exceptional watermelons, and all of Rhodes proudly considers Apolakkia watermelons the finest on the island. This charming village in southern Rhodes has earned its reputation as the “watermelon capital” of the island, producing some of the sweetest, most refreshing watermelons in the Mediterranean. When locals across Rhodes want the best watermelons, they specifically seek out those from Apolakkia—a testament to the village’s agricultural excellence and generations of farming expertise.
The 17th Annual Watermelon Festival: A Must-Visit Summer Event in Rhodes
The 17th Annual Watermelon Festival is more than just a summer event—it’s a heartfelt celebration of local heritage, community spirit, and the fruit that has defined Apolakkia for generations. Taking place on Saturday, July 19th, 2025, at 8:00 PM in the village square, this beloved festival brings together locals and visitors for an evening of authentic Greek hospitality and traditional entertainment.
What Makes This Rhodes Summer Festival Special
Live Traditional Music: The renowned orchestra of Alexandros Peroullis will provide the soundtrack for the evening, featuring traditional Greek melodies and island rhythms that will have everyone dancing under the stars.
Authentic Folk Dancing: Experience the joy of traditional Greek dances, where visitors are welcome to join locals in celebrating age-old customs and community bonds.
Unlimited Fresh Watermelon: The star of the show—enjoy unlimited servings of Apolakkia’s famous watermelons, served fresh and perfectly chilled to beat the July heat.
Free Admission: This community celebration welcomes everyone with open arms, embodying the true spirit of Greek philoxenia (hospitality).
Best Time to Visit Rhodes for Summer Festivals
July is the perfect time to experience authentic Greek culture in Rhodes. The 17th Apolakkia Watermelon Festival coincides with Rhodes’ peak summer season, when the island comes alive with traditional celebrations and cultural events.
How to Get to Apolakkia Village from Rhodes
Apolakkia is located approximately 100 kilometers south of Rhodes Town, making it an excellent day trip destination for tourists staying in the main resort areas. The journey takes you through the authentic, less touristic part of Rhodes, where you’ll experience genuine Greek village life and culture.
Local Tourism Tips for Rhodes Visitors
Combine with Beach Time: After the festival, visit the beautiful Apolakkia Beach, just 4 kilometers from the village, featuring pristine sands and crystal-clear waters protected under the European Network “NATURA 2000”.
Explore Authentic Rhodes: Southern Rhodes offers the best opportunity to see genuine Greek villages and experience local life away from the crowded tourist areas.
Summer Festival Season: The Apolakkia festival is part of Rhodes’ vibrant summer festival calendar, which includes various cultural events throughout July and August.
Do yourself a favor and try watermelon with feta!
This classic Greek combination has been enjoyed for centuries and represents the perfect marriage of sweet and salty flavors
Why Choose Apolakkia for Your Rhodes Holiday Experience
This event offers tourists a rare opportunity to experience genuine Greek tradition and hospitality. Unlike the crowded tourist areas, Apolakkia provides an authentic glimpse into local life, complete with traditional music, dancing, and the island’s most celebrated agricultural product.
The 17th Watermelon Festival is not just an event—it’s a cultural immersion that creates lasting memories and connects visitors with the real heart of Rhodes.
