About

GO Youth Melbourne, with the blessing of His Eminence Archbishop Makarios of Australia, invites you to attend the return of the Φilotimo Festival on the Australia Day long weekend 24th - 26th of January 2026. 

Over a three day trip, youth aged 18 to 29 will enjoy fun activities, fellowship, Greek food, music and dancing whilst staying at the Iluka Retreat, Shoreham and events to be held at the grounds of the Holy Monastery of Panagia Kamariani (135 Arthurs Seat Rd, Red Hill, Victoria, 3937). 
We encourage all youth to attend the Φilotimo Festival to enjoy a relaxing and edifying weekend, and grow in faith, culture, and fellowship.

*Accomodation open to those 18-29 years
*Tavern Night open for those 16-29 years

SCHEDULE:

Saturday 25th JAN
- Opening blessings and welcome ceremony at 12pm
- A spiritual talk and lunch at Panagia Kamariani from 1pm onwards 
- ⁠Arrival and check in at Iluka Retreat at 3pm
- ⁠The youth will return in the evening for a Glendi style tavern night, with live music and traditional dancing from 6pm

Sunday 26th JAN
- From 8am, a hierarchical service Matins & Divine Liturgy at Panagia Kamariani followed by the Philotimo Family Day Panigiri — featuring a Sunday School parade, music, traditional performances, food trucks, rides and more!

Monday 27th JAN
• Check out at Iluka Retreat with a final goodbye breakfast 
• ⁠From 8am, a Matins and Divine Liturgy service and Chanters Day BBQ on the grounds of Panagia Kamariani

*PLEASE NOTE PANAGIA KAMARIANI IS A 7 MIN DRIVE FROM THE ILUKA RETREAT ACCOMODATION GROUNDS. CARPOOLING IS HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.