Easter Tuesday in Corfu – 2026 Guide
Saint Spyridon’s “Basmata” Ceremony & Philharmonic Tribute
Date: Tuesday, 14 April 2026
Time: 18:00
Location: Church of Saint Spyridon, Corfu Old Town
While most visitors think Easter ends on Sunday, Corfu quietly continues its celebrations for several days.
And on Easter Tuesday, the island honours its beloved patron saint with one final, deeply traditional ceremony known locally as “Basmata of Saint Spyridon.”
It’s calm, authentic, and beautifully local — the kind of hidden cultural moment you only experience if you know where to look.
✨ What is the “Basmata of the Saint”?
At 18:00, the Holy Relic of Saint Spyridon is formally returned and placed back inside the church after the extended Easter pilgrimage period.
This ceremonial deposit of the relic marks the closing of the Easter celebrations and takes place with:
• Local authorities present
• Clergy and congregation
• The city’s two oldest philharmonic orchestras
• Formal hymns and music
The word “Basmata” refers to the saint’s “steps” or “footprints” — symbolically accompanying him back home after the days he has been “among the people.”
It’s a simple but meaningful ritual that locals attend every year.
🎺 The Philharmonic Tradition
Like many important Corfu ceremonies, music plays a central role.
Two of the island’s historic philharmonic bands participate, creating a dignified and emotional atmosphere outside the church.
If you’ve experienced Corfu’s famous bands during Holy Week, you’ll recognise that same beautiful brass sound — slower, ceremonial, and deeply moving.
This connection between faith and music is something truly unique to Corfu.
🌿 What to Expect
Unlike the crowds of Holy Saturday or Good Friday, Easter Tuesday feels:
✔ quieter
✔ more intimate
✔ mostly locals
✔ deeply authentic
You won’t find fireworks or big processions — just a respectful gathering and traditional ceremony.
It’s perfect if you love:
• local culture
• religious traditions
• photography
• peaceful Old Town evenings
Afterwards, the area around Saint Spyridon is lovely for a slow walk or dinner in Liston or Campiello.
❤️ Why it’s worth visiting
Most tourists leave by Monday.
Which means if you’re still in Corfu on Tuesday, you get to experience something that feels genuinely “inside local life.”
It’s one of those moments where you realise:
👉 This isn’t a show — this is real Corfu.
And those are always the best travel memories.
✅ Tips for attending
• Arrive 15–20 minutes early
• Stand respectfully near the church entrance
• Photography is fine but keep it discreet
• Pair with an evening stroll or sunset dinner nearby
Quick Info
Easter Tuesday Corfu 2026:
• 18:00 – Deposit of Saint Spyridon’s relic (“Basmata of the Saint”)
• Location – Church of Saint Spyridon, Corfu Town
• Includes philharmonic music and official ceremony