Special rules for the Agios Fanourios feast: what you need to know for August 26–27
The feast of the church of Agios Fanourios in Apokoronas municipality draws large crowds every year — and this year, authorities are putting firm traffic measures in place to keep everyone safe. Because the church sits directly beside Crete's busy north coast highway, the Chania Police Directorate has drawn up a clear plan covering both pedestrians and drivers for the eve and the feast day itself.
Who is affected?
Anyone planning to attend the celebrations on August 26 (the eve) or August 27, 2026 (the feast day) — whether arriving on foot or by vehicle.
Pedestrians: a mandatory alternative route
Walking along the north coast highway is prohibited by law at any time — and the feast is no exception. Pedestrians will be directed along a designated alternative route through the surrounding villages:
- Megala Chorafia → Apteron → Stylos → Neo Chorio → Agion Panton junction → Old National Road → south entrance of the church
Police officers will be stationed along the route to guide people safely.
Drivers: no stopping or parking on the highway
On both days, stopping and parking are strictly forbidden on the carriageway and hard shoulder of the north coast highway. Setting up market stalls or any other structure on the roadside verge is also prohibited. Police will carry out increased checks, and violations will be penalised.
How the decision was made
The measures were agreed at a coordination meeting held on August 18, 2026 at the Chania Police Directorate. Representatives from the Diocese of Kydonia and Apokoronas, the Agios Fanourios parish, Apokoronas municipality, and the relevant traffic police units all took part.
Key facts at a glance
- Dates: August 26 and 27, 2026
- Pedestrian route: Megala Chorafia – Apteron – Stylos – Neo Chorio – Agion Panton junction – Old National Road – south entrance of the church
- Parking ban: entire north coast highway (carriageway and hard shoulder)
- Stall ban: no structures of any kind on the highway verge
- Enforcement: increased police presence on both days
Chania Police urges all festival-goers to use only the recommended alternative route and to follow instructions from officers on the ground.