Lesvos Women’s Festival Returns for 11 Days in Sappho’s Birthplace

One of Europe’s most distinctive LGBT travel events is underway on the Greek island of Lesvos, also widely known as Lesbos, where women from around the world are gathering for 11 days of music, culture, parties and community events.

The International Eressos Women’s Festival 2026 runs from 9 to 19 September in Skala Eressos, a seaside village on the western side of Lesvos historically associated with the ancient Greek poet Sappho. 

More than a festival

Rather than taking place inside a single festival site, events are spread across Skala Eressos and its beachfront. The programme includes concerts, live performances, DJ sets, film screenings, dance, theatre, exhibitions, workshops, yoga, sports, excursions and water activities.

That makes the festival particularly interesting from a travel perspective. Visitors can combine events with a Greek island holiday rather than spending the entire trip inside a conventional festival environment. 

The festival celebrated its 25th anniversary in 2025, giving it a history stretching back considerably further than many LGBT destination events. Organisers Sappho Women describe it as an international meeting point built around women’s culture, creativity and community.

Where to stay

Skala Eressos itself is the obvious base because events take place throughout the village and along the beach. Accommodation ranges from smaller hotels and guesthouses to apartments and holiday rentals, but September festival dates can increase demand.

Staying locally also means visitors can walk between the beach, restaurants and many festival activities rather than relying on transport each day.

Getting to Eressos

The island’s main airport is Mytilene International Airport, on the opposite side of Lesvos from Skala Eressos. Travellers should therefore factor the onward journey across the island into their plans rather than treating the airport and festival as neighbouring destinations.

A hire car or pre-arranged transfer can make the journey easier, particularly for visitors carrying luggage or arriving later in the day.

The official festival website at International Eressos Women's Festival⁠ carries programme and visitor information, while Greece’s official tourism website is also promoting the 2026 event. 

Watch the 25th anniversary video here:

For women looking for an LGBT trip that combines community events with beaches and a Greek island break, Eressos remains one of Europe’s most unusual festival destinations.

Follow the official wesbsite and socials for more details: https://womensfestival.eu/

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