44th National Cretan Federation Convention to be held in Sydney

The 44th National Cretan Federation Convention will be hosted by the Cretan Association of Sydney and New South Wales from Friday 2 January to Tuesday 6 January 2026.

Held under the auspices of the Cretan Federation of Australia and New Zealand, the convention will welcome hundreds of participants of Greek and Cretan descent from across Australia and New Zealand.

The official program, released by the Cretan Association of Sydney and New South Wales, features five days of events celebrating Cretan culture and traditions.

Highlights include a Harbour Cruise, the Cretan Federation Annual General Meeting, the Convention Dinner Dance, a Church Service, the Youth Annual General Meeting, Youth Night, a Casual Dinner, Youth Sports Day, and a Farewell Dinner showcasing Cretan youth musicians from across Australia.

Attendees will be entertained at the events by live Cretan music performed by Mihalis Charkiolakis (Mandolino and Askoumandoura), Giorgos Koudoumougiannakis (Lyra), and Vaggelis Bagourakis (Lute) from Crete.

Traditional Cretan dancing groups from Cretan associations around Australia will also be attending and performing at the convention.

Emmanuel Vitetzakis, President of the Cretan Association of Sydney and NSW, said: “After eight long years, we’re thrilled to once again host the National Cretan Federation Convention here in Sydney. The excitement is building as we prepare to welcome both familiar faces and new friends, especially our incredible Cretan youth, whose passion, spirit, and pride are the heartbeat of our culture. Get ready for an unforgettable week celebrating all things Cretan.”

Emmanuel Mountakis, President of the Cretan Federation of Australia and New Zealand, added: “The Cretan Federation of Australia and New Zealand invites all Cretans of Oceania to gather in Sydney for the 44th Annual Convention. Let’s come together and make this five-day cultural celebration a true success!”

Hotel details, as well as event booking details, can be found at the following link: www.cretannsw.com.au/cretanconvention2026. Tickets for some events are limited, so all attendees are encouraged to book early to avoid disappointment.

Full Convention Program: