If you plan to be in Kefalonia the first weekend of August do not miss the "Saristra" Arts and Music Festival that takes place in Sami/ Karavomylos. (was 5- 6- 7 august this year)
It was the first time I attented such an alternative festival although is a norm since 2012 and I had heard so much.
Just a couple of km above Karavomylos, next to Sami, a narrow dusty road leads you to a platau of really old and tall olive trees. And there it is, out of nowhere, a ruined stone village appears right in front of you. It is the Old Vlahata, a settlement built on the mountainside of Sami and collapsed completely in the 1953's earthquakes. It is also called "the ghost village" and Saristra was the name of the square of the village, and around it is what everything happens.
Each ruined house is brought back to life, taken by artists, who for 3 days set up little galleries and art halls. From book presentations to photography exhibitions and even projects held from university students, each ruined house has a new story to tell.
The music scene at the "square" hosts new and old rock and alternative bands from early in the evening till later at night. A couple of bars and canteens are also around. Volunteers are everywhere for visitors' assistance.
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It was a magical evening and can't wait till next year !
