Ikarian cuisine: Ikarian cuisine is known for its simplicity and use of local ingredients. The island is famous for its wild greens, including horta, a type of wild spinach, and kremmydi, a wild onion. The cuisine also includes local specialties such as Ikarian goat meat and honey.
Ikarian festivals: The island celebrates a number of festivals throughout the year, including the Ikaria Panigiri, a summer festival that features traditional music, dancing, and food. Another popular festival is the Feast of St. George, which is celebrated in the village of Christos in honor of the island’s patron saint.
Ikarian music: Music is an important part of Ikarian culture, with traditional instruments including the lyra and the laouto. The island is also known for its unique style of traditional dancing, which involves intricate footwork and is often performed in a circle.
Ikarian way of life: Ikarians are known for their laid-back way of life and focus on leisure time. The island has a low-stress lifestyle, with a slower pace of life and a focus on enjoying simple pleasures such as spending time with family and friends.
Ikarian longevity: Ikarians are known for their high rates of longevity, with a large number of residents living into their 90s and even 100s. The island’s healthy lifestyle, diet, and focus on leisure time are often cited as reasons for this longevity.
Overall, Ikaria has a rich cultural heritage and a unique way of life that has been shaped by its history and geography.