Matala Beach Festival Revives Hippie Era on Crete

People at the Matala Beach Festival. Photo source: Matala Beach Festival

The international Matala Beach Festival on Crete will transport attendees back to the famous hippie era with live music events, sports, and art activities for children.

From July 5 to 7, people of all ages will have the opportunity to escape everyday life and enjoy three days filled with music, dancing, and various activities, all set against the backdrop of the famous beach caves of Matala. According to the organizers, the Matala Beach Festival is one of Europe’s largest free music festivals, seamlessly blending entertainment with relaxation.

“On the festival’s main stage, prominent bands and leading artists from Greek and international music scenes will deliver an unforgettable spectacle, set against the backdrop of the iconic caves and breathtaking sunsets,” the organizers announced on social media.

The festival’s concerts. Photo source: Matala Beach Festival

As part of its events, the festival will showcase the “Matala Busking Project”, an initiative deeply linked to the local culture and the hippie philosophy.

The project invites independent street artists to join a large community based on self-organization and acceptance. Several artists will actively participate in the festival across various parts of the settlement.

Furthermore, the “Matala Street Painting” event will also be part of the projects, with the date to be announced soon. Admission to all concerts and activities will be free of charge.

Matala caves. Photo source: Matala Beach Festival

The Matala caves gained the spotlight back in the ’60s when hippies from America and Europe stayed on the beach before continuing their journey to India, Nepal, and Afghanistan.

It remained their favorite destination until the mid-1970s, when the last hippies were driven out of Matala by the Junta authorities and the Church.

In a bid to promote lesser-known Cretan destinations, the island’s regional authority invited two foreign journalists to visit the famous beach, which will receive coverage through a two-page article for the hippie community on Crete.

The organizers include the Faistos Municipality and the Cultural Association of Pitsidia – Matala.