The Greek America Foundation is proud to announce Kazani Weekend, one of the newest experiences from Homecoming Journeys, taking place October 22–25, 2026, in Archanes, Crete.
At the heart of this extraordinary four-day gathering is the kazani, one of Crete’s most beloved autumn traditions. As the copper still glows over the fire and the season’s grapes become tsikoudia, guests will be welcomed into a celebration alive with food, raki, stories, live Cretan music and dancing. More than something to watch, the kazani is something to enter—a spirited evening of warmth and generosity in which strangers become friends and everyone finds a place at the table.
That same spirit of discovery will carry through a series of rare, hands-on encounters with the living culture of the island: joining a shepherd in Zoniana beneath Mount Psiloritis and learning the traditions of Cretan cheesemaking; shaping clay in a pottery workshop inspired by the methods of the ancient Minoans and creating something personal to take home; and tasting wines made from indigenous Cretan grape varieties that have been brought back to life. Village streets, memorable meals and a celebratory night at Vissino Cafe Bistro with DJ Marios Kallergis on the decks will add still more energy to a weekend designed not simply to show guests Crete, but to make them feel part of it.
Participation is intentionally limited to just 18 guests, preserving the personal character of the experience and the sense of belonging that defines every Homecoming Journey.
Why Homecoming Journeys
Homecoming Journeys is a Greek America Foundation initiative created to offer our Foundation family a more meaningful way to connect with Greece—not from a distance, but through lived experience. Each journey brings people closer to the culture, communities and values that inspire our work, creating space for friendship, memory, discovery and a deeper sense of home.