Spring (April–May) and early autumn (September–October) are the best times to visit. The pelicans arrive in spring and the light on the lakes is at its finest. Summers bring warmth but also crowds at the festivals and occasional heat. Winter is cold at 850 metres — roads can be icy.
Prespia Festival takes place on the last weekend of August on the island of Agios Achillios in Micro Prespa. One of the more significant cultural events in the northern Balkans, it draws audiences from Greece and the neighbouring countries for music, theatre, and outdoor performances against the backdrop of the Byzantine basilica ruins.
Festival of Beans (August, at Koula between the lakes): the Prespa bean is a locally prized variety, and this festival celebrates it with tastings and traditional dancing.
Village festivals (panigiri) are held throughout the summer to celebrate patron saints — each village has its own date, with live music, dancing and food in the village square.