44th Sarakatsani Gathering / Pertouli Meadows (June 26–28, 2026)

The annual Panhellenic Sarakatsani Gathering is the most important institution for the expression, preservation, and promotion of Sarakatsani cultural heritage, and it has now reached 44 years of continuous presence. Dozens of associations from across Greece and abroad come together in the idyllic setting of the Pertouli Meadows to (re)connect, strengthen their bonds, recall their customs and traditions, and celebrate through their dances and songs.

The choice of location is far from accidental, as it highlights the Sarakatsani people's close connection with the mountains of the Greek landscape, where the flame of freedom and the aspiration for the rebirth of the Greek nation were preserved through the centuries.

Image

The Panhellenic Gathering takes place on the last Sunday of June, and each year it is dedicated to a central theme. This year's event commemorates the 200th anniversary of the Exodus of Messolonghi and honors the memory of Sarakatsani chieftain Grigoris Liakatas, who fell heroically while defending the “Sacred City.”

One of the most significant moments of this year's Gathering will be the reenactment of a traditional Sarakatsani caravan in its natural setting. More than a simple reenactment, it will serve as a living historical testimony and an opportunity for younger generations—and visitors of all ages—to discover the true history of the Sarakatsani people while paying tribute to their ancestors.

Event Programme

Friday, June 26
21:30 Traditional youth celebration at the Pertouli Meadows

Saturday, June 27
18:00 Reenactment of a Sarakatsani Caravan
21:30 Traditional celebration at the Pertouli Meadows

Sunday, June 28
10:45 Arrival of officials and visitors
11:00 Opening Ceremony 
- Entrance of the caravan
- Entrance of the folk dance groups representing the associations
- Blessing ceremony
- Welcome address by the President of the Panhellenic Federation of Sarakatsani Associations, Grigorios Lefas
- Brief greetings from official guests
- Awards ceremony for outstanding students
- Presentation of an honorary plaque
- Reenactment of the performance “The Longing for Freedom and the War of Hunger”
Performance presented by: The Sarakatsani Association of Valtos – Xiromero – Evrytania.
Script by: Georgios Tsaknakis, member of the Sarakatsani Association of Pieria
- Presentation of traditional Sarakatsani games
- Elders’ dance
- Presentation of traditional dances by members of the participating folk dance groups.
Community dance with audience participation