On Sunday, September 21, 2025, Santorini once again lit up the Aegean sky with the world-famous Ifestia Festival—but this year, something extraordinary happened. For the very first time, the breathtaking fireworks display over the caldera was accompanied by a synchronized drone show, creating a spectacle that blended tradition with cutting-edge technology.
A Festival Rooted in Santorini’s Volcanic Past
The Ifestia Festival is one of Santorini’s most iconic annual events, paying tribute to the volcanic eruptions that shaped the island’s dramatic landscape. Each year, thousands of visitors gather along the caldera cliffs, in Fira, Oia, Imerovigli, and beyond, to watch the night sky come alive with a fireworks show that simulates volcanic explosions.
The event has long been celebrated as a symbol of Santorini’s resilience and natural beauty. But this year’s edition offered something new that left visitors speechless.
A Drone Show Over the Caldera: A First for Santorini
For the first time in the history of the Ifestia Festival, a fleet of illuminated drones joined the fireworks, dancing in perfect harmony above the caldera. The drones formed dazzling shapes and symbols in the sky—volcanic eruptions, waves, and even iconic Santorini landmarks—telling a visual story of the island’s heritage and spirit.
This innovative addition brought a modern twist to the festival, marrying high-tech creativity with centuries of tradition. The combination of fireworks, drones, and the reflection over the Aegean Sea turned the caldera into an unforgettable stage of light and wonder.
Why the 2025 Ifestia Festival Was Truly Unmissable
- Unique Experience: The fireworks + drone show marked a new era for Santorini’s cultural celebrations.
- Panoramic Views: From luxury hotels in Fira to cliffside tavernas in Oia, the spectacle was visible from almost every corner of the caldera.
- Free for All: As always, the festival remained free to attend, attracting both locals and international travelers.
- Perfect Timing: Taking place in mid-September, visitors enjoyed ideal weather and a vibrant late-summer atmosphere on the island.
Planning Your Visit to Ifestia Festival in Santorini
If you’re planning a trip to Santorini, timing it with the Ifestia Festival is one of the best ways to experience the island at its most magical. Hotels and restaurants, like Athina Luxury Suites, Esperisma Bar Restaurant and Rizes Restaurant overlooking the caldera often get booked months in advance, so early planning is essential.
Travelers looking for authentic cultural experiences in Greece should mark their calendars for the next edition of the Ifestia Festival. Whether it’s the booming fireworks, the innovative drone formations, or simply the breathtaking view of the caldera illuminated at night, this is an event that captures the soul of Santorini like no other.
The Ifestia Festival 2025 will be remembered not only for its dazzling fireworks but also for the historic first-ever drone show over the caldera. By combining ancient memory with modern innovation, Santorini proved once again why it remains one of the most magical destinations in the world.
Panagiotis Inglesis is the co-owner and General manager of Athina Luxury Suites, along with his wife Mrs.Artemis Argyrou. Together they had a vision to create one of the best boutique hotels in Santorini and today they continue their vision…Athina Luxury Suites is considered one of the top hotels on the island.