By Nijole Darroh
The name of Deryneia is directly linked to the cultivation of strawberries in Cyprus, since the first strawberry plantations in Cyprus on a commercial basis were cultivated in Deryneia, more than 55 years ago. Today, Deryneia still holds by far the leading position in strawberry cultivation and production in Cyprus, in both quantity and quality.
On Friday (06.06.2025) in Deryneia town of Cyprus, happened a big event: “Strawberry festival”, like every year. It was held in a large stadium that can accommodate several thousand people. And crowd were not just standing, but hundreds were sat at long tables, that were provided for free to everybody.
Strawberries have been grown in this region for six decades. In 1974. After the Turkish invasion of Cyprus, 70% of the strawberry plants were destroyed and it took many years for them to grow again.
Local people look forward to this unique festival every year, when not only the hard-to-grow berries are eaten, but also strawberry growers are praised. If it weren’t for them, there would be no delicious, fragrant strawberries on our tables.
It is difficult to grow berries in the heat, protect them from rodents, fertilize, prune, water, pick, and sell them. It’s a lot of work! Also, strawberry associate with summer’s beginning: more sun and joy.
Live music was played at this event. Some artists were dressed for kids and made jokes together. Many vendors gather not only to sell strawberries, but also children’s favorite food: burgers, chips, hot dogs. Few bars were open, and interesting souvenirs for sale. 
The aim of the festival is to promote the innovative cultivation and distribution of the strawberry fruit and its by-products in combination with the presentation of its quality as part of a cultural and artistic program. 
People bring their own food from home and sit at tables with close neighbors or friends. Those who don’t have time to cook food, can buy here on the spot. Events are organized for children: strawberry cake making, face painting, lessons on how to work with clay.
To thousands of visitors of the festival, locals and foreigners lots of fresh strawberries and various preparations thereof, such as strawberry-juice, -jam, -liqueurs, -sweets, -ice-creams, etc. are offered free of charge by the passionate producers, prepared with enthusiasm by their wives and family.
It’s was fun and interesting not only for children, but also for adults. The most beautiful and delicious strawberry cake had big competition, which attracted many viewers. Cakes were looking amazingly!
The organized groups of the Municipality operate kiosks on the grounds of the festival offering food and beverages and the guests have the opportunity to enjoy a rich cultural program with its impressive fireworks. 
All people were given a present- small box of tasty strawberries. There was a lottery. I saw a white, new car for someone to win. 
A colorful crowded people of various ages and nationalities. Two big car parks by the stadium were very busy. Some people stay till midnight and enjoy themselves in full. Lovely festival, attracting large crowds, both local and foreign tourists, because was perfectly organised. Bravo! 
Nijole Darroh – (Facebook Neli Amber)
