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Steeped in antiquarian history, natural beauty, the clearest blue skies and the finest culinary delights, the islands of Greece are understandably popular destinations. But there is much more to Greece then just sea, sand and fine food. Try booking flights to Kos and you will be left speechless at the peculiar island festivals that are on offer over June, July and August.

A little known favourite of the locals is the feast of Aghios Ioannis, celebrated throughout the end of June. Feted with float parades, primarily in Antimachia and Pyli, the feast is marked by two customs - Fanos, meaning fire, and the Klidona, meaning fortune telling.

The Fanos coincided with the summer solstice on June 24th this year. The solstice is considered an important and dangerous turning point in the year and for this reason the ancestors of the residents of Kos sought various ways to protect themselves. As the sun goes down, fires are lit in the street and in front of each house. The old and the young jump up and down three times.

Every effort is made to ensure that jumps are taken when the flame is burning brightly because the residents of Kos believe that by jumping higher than tall flames they transfer to themselves the powerful properties of the magical flame and thus rob it off its strength!

Preparations for the Klidonas fortune telling custom begin on the eve of the feast of Ahios Ioannis. This custom entails unwed girls in traditional costume gathering water in silence in a jug into which those present throw an item belonging to them such as a ring or earring. As the water is being carried, the girls are supposed to abstain from speaking. Later, one of the girls extracts the items one by one while reciting some verses. These verses are supposed to reveal the fate of the girl in relation to that item. The evening continues with song and dance around fires which are lit with May Day wreathes and that is why it is called Fire Night.

It's a time of reflection, fun and festivity, with old and young alike joining in. So if you fancy a holiday you will never forget, then make sure you don't miss out with our great last minute deals online.