The annual Rebetiko Conference of Hydra (October) which celebrates the traditional Greek music genre of Rebetiko, takes place in October on the scenic island of Hydra. It includes live music performances, dancing, and seminars, all set against the island's picturesque, car-free streets and historic buildings.Â
The Hydra Rebetiko Festival is an annual music event held on the picturesque island of Hydra, Greece, every October. This unique festival celebrates rebetiko, a genre of Greek urban folk music that emerged in the early 20th century, characterized by its soulful and often melancholic melodies. Rebetiko has been dubbed the "Greek blues" due to its emotionally charged themes, which typically revolve around love, loss, and the hardships of life.
Taking place in a stunning setting where history meets modernity, the Hydra Rebetiko Festival offers an authentic experience, as it is held in traditional venues across the island—open squares, tavernas, and the historic port area. Attendees are immersed in the vibrant culture of Hydra, an island known for its charming, car-free streets, neoclassical architecture, and maritime heritage.
The festival not only features performances by renowned Greek rebetiko musicians but also includes a range of events such as workshops, discussions, and exhibitions. These provide deeper insights into the history, culture, and musical evolution of rebetiko. Musicians and academics alike engage in conversations that explore rebetiko’s place in Greek cultural identity and its influence on contemporary music.
The festival has garnered a loyal following, with visitors coming from across Greece and abroad to experience this cultural tradition. In recent years, the festival has become a symbol of Hydra’s dedication to preserving Greek musical heritage, while also welcoming new interpretations and younger generations of musicians into the fold.
Official Festival Page HERE
