The sky over Vrontados in Chios was once again filled with thousands of rockets on the night of Holy Saturday, just before the Resurrection, as the historic Easter tradition ultimately took place as planned, despite the tension, uncertainty, and pressure that had built up in recent days.

The two parishes, Panagia Erithiani and Agios Markos, once again became the focal point of a spectacle that, for Chios, is much more than a tourist attraction: it is a tradition deeply rooted in local memory, filled with history, emotion, and strong symbolism.

The first movements of the “rocket throwers” began early in the evening, with preparations gradually intensifying and test launches starting shortly after 9:00 p.m. As midnight approached, the anticipation among residents and visitors grew stronger, until just before midnight, when thousands of rockets began streaking across the sky, illuminating the village and transforming the night into a dazzling display.

This year’s Resurrection night, however, stood out not only for the spectacle. Its significance was heightened by the tense atmosphere that had formed earlier, when the possibility of canceling the rocket war remained open until the very last moment. Continuous meetings, concerns, inspections, and overall pressure had created uncertainty, with many believing the final decision would be made at the last minute.

The uncertainty ended on the afternoon of Holy Saturday, when it was confirmed that the tradition would take place. At 6:00 p.m., the joint parade of the teams from Agios Markos and Panagia Erithiani began from Petrokaravo, sending a clear message that Vrontados would once again experience the night of the rocket war. The teams then took their positions, while scheduled pauses in the launches were also arranged to allow safe movement and access for the public between the two parishes.

A notable presence was that of internationally renowned Vrontados-born astrophysicist Stamatios Krimigis, who took part at the front of the parade. In the same spirit were public statements by the president of the Chios Tourism Organization, Kostas Moundros, and the mayor of Chios, Giannis Malafis, who emphasized the importance of preserving the tradition under safer conditions and with reduced risk.

The tense backdrop of recent days had been shaped by an earlier incident in a rocket-making area, which caused burns and led to arrests and criminal charges. In total, seven people were arrested for violations related to flares and fireworks, as well as for negligent arson committed jointly. Three of them were brought before the prosecutor, while the others remained in Chios Hospital. This incident abruptly changed the atmosphere on the island, sparking concern, reactions, and an open debate about the limits, management, and future of the tradition.

Residents and business owners in Vrontados had gathered in previous days outside both the police headquarters and the Chios prosecutor’s office to express their support for the prosecuted “rocket throwers,” in a highly charged atmosphere.

Interest in the tradition remained extremely high this year. Visitors from Greece and abroad — including hundreds from Turkey — traveled to Vrontados to witness the spectacular event, once again confirming that the rocket war is one of Chios’s strongest Easter attractions.

Journalistic teams and news agencies from many countries were also present between the two parishes, capturing images of one of Greece’s most unique and widely discussed Easter traditions.