Navarinia Festival
Commemorating the Battle of Navarino, this annual event takes place around October 20th in Pylos.
The festival features reenactments, cultural performances, and naval displays, attracting visitors interested in history and maritime traditions.
What it is
The Navarinia celebrate the anniversary of the naval Battle of Navarino, fought on 20 October 1827 in the bay of Pylos. The combined British, French and Russian fleets defeated the Ottoman–Egyptian fleet, a turning point for the Greek War of Independence.
When it takes place
Navarinia – dates
- Navarinia 2026: the 199th anniversary is on Tuesday 20 October 2026; the celebrations usually run over three days (around 18–20 October), ending with a re-enactment of the battle in the bay on the evening of the 20th
- Navarinia 2027: 20 October 2027 marks the 200th anniversary of the Battle of Navarino – a special year for Pylos
The official programme is announced each October by the Municipality of Pylos–Nestor.
The main celebrations take place in Pylos around 20 October each year, with official ceremonies, wreath-laying at the monument of the Three Admirals in the main square and cultural events in the town. The exact programme is announced by the Municipality of Pylos–Nestor every autumn.
What to see around Pylos
- Navarino Bay, Voidokilia beach and the Gialova lagoon, an important wetland for birds.
- The Neokastro castle above the town and the Venetian castle of Methoni, 12 km away.
- The Palace of Nestor, one of the best preserved Mycenaean palaces.
Getting there
Pylos is about 305 km from Athens (around 3.5 hours) and 150 km from Lagkadia. October is a beautiful month in Messinia – warm sea, few crowds – so it is a great time to combine the festival with a few days by the sea.
Where to stay
Pylos, Gialova and Methoni have small hotels and guesthouses close to the sea, and Kalamata, about one hour away, has a wider choice and an airport. Tell us your style and we will suggest the right place for your dates.
Let us plan it for you
4 Colours Travel is a licensed local travel agency. We arrange private transfers, tours and stays all over Greece – tell us your dates and we will reply within 24 hours.