The Cretan Association of Sydney and NSW will mark the 159th anniversary of the Holocaust of the Arkadi Monastery with a series of commemorative and cultural events from 8 to 10 November 2025.
The program will begin with the annual Arkadi Dinner Dance on Saturday, 8 November, at the Clairemont Reception Centre in Bankstown.
Guests will enjoy an evening of live entertainment featuring international musicians Vangelis Kimionis, Klearchos Manolioudis and Michalis Lymakis, alongside performances by the Cretan Association’s talented dancing groups.
Tickets are priced at $120 for adults and $60 for children, inclusive of beer, wine, and soft drinks. Bookings can be made via trybooking.com/DFAMN.
Commemorations will continue on Sunday, 9 November, with a church service, mnimosino and wreath-laying ceremony at the Greek Orthodox Cathedral of the Annunciation of the Theotokos, Redfern, beginning at 9am.
The solemn service will pay tribute to those who sacrificed their lives during the 1866 siege of the Arkadi Monastery – a defining moment in Crete’s struggle for freedom.
Adding a creative touch to the commemorative weekend, the Association will also host an Arkadi Monastery Paint Night on Monday, 10 November, at That Art Place in Carlton.
The evening, starting at 7pm, will be guided by artist Andronika Troulis, who will lead participants through a step-by-step painting session of the historic monastery. The event is open to ages 13 and above, with no prior experience required. Bookings can be made at trybooking.com/DGQIZ.
Reflecting on the significance of the anniversary, Cretan Association President Terry Saviolakis said: “The Holocaust at the Holy Monastery of Arkadi is not only a story of sacrifice, but of enduring faith, courage and love for freedom. It reminds us that even in the darkest hours, the Cretan spirit of resistance shines bright – a legacy we are proud to honour, celebrate and pass on to future generations.”
