The 44th National Cretan Federation Convention will return to Sydney from Friday 2 January to Tuesday 6 January 2026, uniting the Greek and Cretan diaspora for five days of celebration, tradition and community.
Hosted by the Cretan Association of Sydney and New South Wales, under the auspices of the Cretan Federation of Australia and New Zealand, the convention promises a dynamic program blending cultural pride, youth engagement and world-class entertainment.
Throughout the week, attendees will enjoy live performances by Mihalis Charkiolakis (Mandolino and Askoumandoura), Giorgos Koudoumougiannakis (Lyra) and Vaggelis Bagourakis (Lute) from Crete, alongside traditional dance groups representing Cretan associations from across Australia.
Friday 2 January – Convention Opening
Evening: Harbour Cruise Party
The convention will open in spectacular style with a Cretan Harbour Cruise Party, departing from Huntleys Point Wharf. Boarding will begin at 6.00pm, with the cruise departing promptly at 6.30pm. Guests will enjoy sweeping views of Sydney Harbour, a canape menu and the festive atmosphere of a true Cretan celebration.
The cruise will set the tone for the days ahead, offering the perfect opportunity for delegates to reconnect, network and welcome new members to the Cretan family. Drinks will be available for purchase from the onboard bar. Tickets are priced at $85 for adults, $50 for children aged four to twelve, and free for toddlers under three. Bookings can be made via www.trybooking.com/DCEYT.
Saturday 3 January – Federation Business and Celebration
Morning: Cretan Federation Annual General Meeting
The Cretan Federation AGM will take place from 9.00am sharp in the conference rooms of the Branksome Hotel, located at 60 Robey Street, Mascot. Representatives from Cretan associations across Australia and New Zealand will meet to discuss Federation updates, community projects and plans for the future.
Lunch will be provided, and advance booking is required for catering purposes. Reservations can be made via www.trybooking.com/DCEZK.
Evening: Convention Dinner Dance
The excitement will continue into the night with the Convention Dinner Dance, a cornerstone of the convention’s social calendar. Attendees will experience the finest in Cretan music and dance, featuring the visiting musicians from Crete and traditional dance groups from every state.
Set against a backdrop of hospitality, live performance and community pride, the Dinner Dance is expected to draw hundreds of guests. Bookings can be made via https://www.trybooking.com/DCFGF
Sunday 4 January – Worship, Youth and Community
Morning: Divine Liturgy
The third day of the convention will begin with a Divine Liturgy at the Greek Orthodox Cathedral of the Annunciation of the Theotokos, 242 Cleveland Street, Surry Hills, commencing at 9.00am. The service will offer a moment of reflection and blessing, bringing together delegates in faith and gratitude for the opportunity to celebrate their shared heritage.
Afternoon: Cretan Youth Annual General Meeting
At 12.30pm, the focus will shift to the next generation of leaders with the Cretan Youth Annual General Meeting, held at the Branksome Hotel. This session will bring together young Cretans from across Oceania to discuss their activities, aspirations and future direction.
Light refreshments will be provided, and bookings are essential via www.trybooking.com/DCEZU.
Evening: Youth Night and Casual Dinner
The day will conclude with two concurrent social events. Cretan youth aged 13 and over are invited to attend the Youth Night at Panagia Soumela Hall, 604 New Canterbury Road, Hurlstone Park, starting at 6.30pm. This free event will provide a lively space for young people to connect, dance and celebrate their shared culture. Attendance is free, but registration is required through www.trybooking.com/DCPET.
For other attendees, a Casual Dinner will be held at GRK Meze Grill, Ramsgate, also beginning at 6.30pm. Guests will enjoy a relaxed evening with a set menu priced at $55 per person, and drinks available for purchase from the bar. Bookings can be made at www.trybooking.com/DCEZY.
Monday 5 January – Sports and Farewell Celebration
Morning: Youth Sports Day
The penultimate day of the convention will begin with a Youth Sports Day at St Spyridon College Senior Campus, 1130 Anzac Parade, Maroubra, commencing at 11.00am. The event will bring together young participants for a morning of friendly competition, fostering teamwork and camaraderie across state lines.
Registration is mandatory and can be completed via www.trybooking.com/DCGUL.
Evening: Farewell Dinner and Showcase
That evening, attendees will come together one final time for the Convention Farewell Dinner, held at Mytilenian House, 225 Canterbury Road, Canterbury, beginning at 6.30pm.
The closing night will feature a Showcase of Youth Cretan Musicians from across Australia, highlighting the rich talent and passion that ensure the continuation of Cretan culture in the diaspora. The Farewell Dinner is free for attendees who have booked the Dinner Dance, while tickets for all other guests are $50 per person. Bookings are essential for catering at www.trybooking.com/DCFGI.
Tuesday 6 January – Departure of Delegates
The convention will officially conclude on Tuesday 6 January, as delegates depart Sydney after five days of music, culture and shared heritage. Participants will leave with lasting memories and strengthened ties within the Cretan community of Australia and New Zealand.
Bookings and Information
Bookings are required for all convention events, with limited capacity for select functions. Attendees are strongly encouraged to secure their places early. Full details and ticketing links can be found at www.cretannsw.com.au/cretanconvention2026.
The 44th National Cretan Federation Convention promises to be an unforgettable celebration of Cretan music, heritage and community — a true reflection of the enduring spirit of Crete in Australia.
