On April 23, pilgrims from neighboring islands travel to Koufonissi to join the observances for the feast of its patron-saint, Ai Georgis. The panigyras, a local who has made a votive to the saint, goes around the island carrying the saint’s holy icon. His trail is strewn with rose petals and he is tracked along the shore by the island’s fishing boats. The procession ends at the church, where pilgrims are offered boiled and roast lamb and refreshments. The “Fisherman’s Festival” is held on the last Saturday of June. Fishing boat captains cook kakavia or fish stew, which is offered to guests with other fish dishes and wine. Much revelry follows with folk dances and music. On July 20, local musicians turn out to play traditional folk tunes on the violin and lyra at the feast of Profitis Ilias. Observances for the August 15 feast of the Dormition of the Virgin begin early in the day when fishing boats set sail at seven o’clock and the island’s entire population travels to Kato Koufonissi for services at the church of the Panayia. Afterwards, pilgrims share a meal with fried fish, followed by lamb and goat. On the journey home, the fishing boats race each other to see who reaches the harbor first.