After the intensity of the Easter celebrations, Panagia is the next biggest "knees up" in the Orthodox festal calendar.
The Panagia is the Holy Virgin Mother, and it is the occasion of the Dormition (known as the Assumption, in the West) of the Virgin that is being marked.

Iconic banner of the Mother of God (Panagia)

It is celebrated on the 15th August, and the evening before is marked by religious processions, which include the carrying of Crucifixes, and icons of the Mother of God. These ceremonies are followed by singing and dancing, which usually lasts until dawn.
August 15th is the height of the Greek summer, and the festival is celebrated with much colour and gusto in the islands, especially as many Greeks return to their islands of origin during the summer, and particularly enjoy joining in all the festive occasions there.

The island of Alonissos has one of the best Panagia festivals. It is held in the Old Village. There is quite a moving ceremony held earlier in the evening (of the 14th). Action then moves to the village square where a bouzouki band strikes up. Much singing and dancing follows, combined with the consuption of copious quantities of food and wine…..courtesy of the town council!!

First.....Solemnity.....

.....then, party-time !!