Athens festivals Archives - Insights Greece

Best Events Guide: July 2026 in Athens

If you’re lucky enough to be in Athens this July, prepare for a month full of experiences, concerts, screenings, 360º Projections, digital art and sultry days melt into euphoric, music-filled nights.

Whether you’re a returning visitor or discovering Athens for the first time, this is your curated guide to the best of what’s on- and what not to miss- this July!

Insights Greece - Best Events Guide: July 2026 in Athens

Ejekt Festival 2026: Florence + The Machine

Florence Welch and her ethereal Machine are back in Athens, as part of Everybody Scream Tour, ready to mesmerise fans with their bold, cinematic indie rock melodies. For almost two decades the British band consistently tops global music charts, including Billboard, the Official UK Charts, and Spotify and are known for their electrifying live shows. Songs like Dog Days Are Over, Shake It Out, Cosmic Love have become global anthems celebrating feelings of liberation, inspired by themes such as Love, Pain and Loss, while in their recent album Everybody Screams they draw inspiration from themes such as Nature, Folklore, Mysticism. Τhis kind of Mysticism they promise to bring in the stage of Ejekt in a show definitely nobody wants to miss. This year, you can also purchase a 2-day ticket for Florence + The Machine day and The Cure, but they will sell out quickly, so hurry!

Tickets: more.com

Date: 14 July, 2026

A: OAKA, Athens Olympic Sports Complex, 37 Kifisias Avenue, Marousi

W: ejeckt.gr

The Cure

The legendary band The Cure has won two Grammy Awards in its long career, and returns to Athens after seven years, ready to give their all on stage and to their audience. With their latest album Songs of a Lost World topping charts in over 30 countries, another record on the horizon, and even a film in the works, gives us plenty of reasons to grab phase two tickets before they’re gone. Get ready to sing along with 40,000 fans to “Lovesong” and “Friday I’m in Love” reminiscing about old memories and building new ones.

Tickets: more.com

Date: 15 July, 2026 (Doors open: 4:30 pm)

A: Athens Olympic Sports Complex, 37 Kifisias Avenue, Marousi

W: ejeckt.gr

La Traviata

Love, sacrifice, and heartbreak take centre stage in Verdi’s La Traviata. More than 170 years after its premiere, La Traviata remains one of the world’s most frequently performed operas, thanks to its emotional depth and unforgettable score. Based on Alexandre Dumas fils’ La Dame aux Camélias, the opera follows the tragic romance between the Parisian courtesan Violetta Valéry and the young Alfredo Germont. What begins as a passionate love affair soon collides with the expectations and hypocrisies of 19th-century society, leading to one of the most moving finales in the operatic repertoire. Returning 25 years after its premiere, this revival pays tribute to the late designer Nikos S. Petropoulos and his celebrated production.

Tickets: ticketservices.gr

Date: 18–30 July 2026

Time: 8 pm

A: The Greek National Opera, Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center, 364 Syngrou Avenue, Kallithea

W: nationalopera.gr

Frida Kahlo: Beyond the Icon – The Immersive Experience

Explore the extraordinary world of Frida Kahlo in this immersive exhibition that goes beyond the iconic image to reveal the woman behind the legend. Through large-scale projections, interactive installations, virtual reality and multisensory storytelling, visitors are invited on an emotional journey exploring Kahlo’s life, resilience and artistic vision. More than an exhibition, Beyond the Icon is a vivid celebration of creativity, identity and the power of turning personal struggle into timeless art.

Tickets: more.com

Date: Until 12 July, 2026

Time: Wed–Sun, 16:00–20:00

A: Hellenic Cosmos Cultural Centre, 254 Pireos Ave., Tavros

W: fridakahlo.gr

Ledisi “For Dinah” Live at Gazarte

One of the defining voices of contemporary American soul, R&B, and jazz, Ledisis, arrives with For Dinah, creating a moving tribute to the incomparable Dinah Washington. Rich in emotion and timeless classics, the performance celebrates the enduring legacy of one of jazz’s greatest icons through Ledisi’s unmistakable voice. A Grammy Award-winning artist with a career spanning more than two decades, Ledisi has collaborated with acclaimed musicians including Herbie Hancock, Robert Glasper, Maxwell, and John Legend, while also earning praise for portraying legendary performers such as Mahalia Jackson, Nina Simone, and Gladys Knight on screen.

Tickets: more.com

Date: 8 July, 2026

A: Gazarte Roof Stage, 34 Voutadon St., Gazi, Athens

W: gazarte.gr

Sunset Frequencies SNFCC

As the sun sets over Athens, the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center launches Sunset Frequencies, a new summer music series that transforms the space beside the Canal into a weekly open-air gathering from July through September. Blending intimate live performances with carefully curated DJ sets, the programme moves between jazz, neoclassical, electronic, funk and soul, creating a fresh soundtrack for warm summer evenings. Guests can also enjoy signature Hendrick’s Gin cocktails while taking in the sunset.

July Line-Up:
8/7 Sophie Lies (Live)
15/7 Quad Piano Trio (Live)
22/7 George Florakis (DJ set)

Date: 8 July – 9 September 2026

Time: From 20:00

A: Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center (SNFCC), 364 Syngrou Ave., Kallithea

W: snfcc.org

Release Athens Festival 2026: Thievery Corporation

This year Greek summer is characterised by lots of music and every concert announcement proves that. Release Festival continues to rock and brings on stage Thievery Corporation for an atmospheric evening with a genre-blending sound that has defined the duo for more than three decades. Since forming in Washington, D.C. in 1995, Rob Garza and Eric Hilton have seamlessly fused downtempo, trip hop, dub, reggae, jazz and world music influences into immersive live performances.

Joining them are The Wailers, performing many of the timeless songs that helped make Bob Marley’s music a global phenomenon and continue to resonate across generations. Completing the line-up, Colombian trio BALTHVS make their Athens debut with their vibrant mix of psychedelic funk, Latin grooves, surf rock and disco. Together, the three acts promise a summer night that blends iconic sounds with fresh musical discoveries, capturing the eclectic spirit that has become a hallmark of Release Athens Festival.

Tickets: more.com

Date: 18 July, 2026

Doors Open: 18:00

A: Plaateia Nerou, Olympic Pole of Faliro, Athens

W: releaseathens.gr

The Carefree Spirit of Summer

The Tsichritzis Foundation for the Visual Arts in Kifissia, welcomes The Carefree Spirit of Summer, a group exhibition curated by Dimitris Lazarou that celebrates the colours, light and emotions of the Greek summer. Bringing together 26 contemporary artists, the exhibition explores themes of sunlight, the sea and the sense of freedom that defines the season through painting, abstraction and contemporary visual expression. Each work offers a unique interpretation of summer, creating an uplifting artistic journey inspired by Greece’s brightest time of year.

Tickets: Free admission

Date: Until 11 July, 2026

A: Tsichritzis Foundation for the Visual Arts, 3 Kastorias St., Kifissia 145 61, Athens

W: tsichritzisfoundation.org

Four Walls and a Roof

Lebanese theatre-maker Rabih Mroué returns to Αthens Epidaurus Festival with Four Walls and a Roof, a thought-provoking lecture-performance created with Lina Majdalanie. Blending personal experiences of exile with the historic 1947 interrogation of Bertolt Brecht by the House Un-American Activities Committee, the work examines censorship, political persecution and the fragile boundaries of free speech. Combining documentary material, personal testimony and sharp humour, Mroué invites audiences to reflect on what it means to speak freely in a world increasingly shaped by surveillance, ideological control and forced displacement.

Tickets: more.com

Date: 12–13 July 2026, 21:00

A: Peiraios 260 – Hall B, 260 Pireos Ave., Tavros, Athens

W: Athens Epidaurus Festival

Open-Air Cinema at SNFCC

Every summer, the Great Lawn at the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center transforms into one of Athens’ most atmospheric open-air cinemas. For Open-Air Cinema SNFCC 2026, Park Your Cinema returns with a programme curated by the Thessaloniki International Film Festival, celebrating the magic of musicals through a collection of iconic films shown beneath the stars.

July Screenings:

19 July: School of Rock (Richard Linklater)

24 July: Dreamgirls (Bill Condon)

31 July: 8 Women (8 Femmes, François Ozon)

Tickets: Free admission

Date: 19, 24 & 31 July 2026

Time: 21:00

A: Great Lawn, Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center (SNFCC), 364 Syngrou Ave., Kallithea

W: snfcc.org

Best Summer Festivals in Athens 2026

From large-scale music festivals and outdoor cinema nights to landmark productions and international tours, here is our guide to the best summer festivals taking place in Athens in 2026.

For many travellers, summer in Greece means island hopping, long lunches by the sea and late nights in whitewashed villages. But before the ferries and beach days begin, Athens is worth building into the trip for another reason entirely- its festival season.

From May through to September, the city fills with open-air concerts, major international acts, theatre performances beneath the Acropolis and film screenings in some of the most atmospheric settings in Europe. One week might bring Nick Cave or Florence + The Machine to the stage, another a classical performance at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus or an independent film festival in the heart of the city.

Whether you are spending a few days in Athens before heading to the islands or planning part of your summer around the capital itself, these are the festivals and cultural events worth knowing about early- especially as many of the biggest performances sell out well in advance.

Insights Greece - Best Summer Festivals in Athens 2026

Release Athens Festival

Marking its 10th anniversary this year, Release Athens Festival returns bigger and more ambitious than ever, once again transforming Plateia Nerou into one of the city’s defining summer concert venues. Since launching in 2016, the festival has become a major part of Athens’ cultural calendar, bringing international artists to the Athenian Riviera and drawing both locals and visitors throughout the season.

The 2026 lineup spans multiple genres and generations, with names including Chris Isaak, David Byrne, Jean-Michel Jarre, Pet Shop Boys, Moby, Megadeth, The Offspring, Pantera, Helloween and Sabaton set to perform across the summer. Tickets are available as individual day passes or multi-day packages, making it possible to book around specific artists or plan several nights at the festival.

Release Athens also joins forces once again with SNF Nostos this year, combining the large-scale energy of the festival with the wider cultural program of the Stavros Niarchos Foundation’s annual celebration.

Among the most anticipated performances of the season is Nick Cave’s return to Athens on June 24, expected to be one of the standout nights of the festival. Known for his intense and emotionally charged live shows, Cave remains one of the most compelling performers to see in an open-air setting like this.

Set against the waterfront just outside central Athens, Release Athens has become more than a music festival. For many, it is now part of the rhythm of summer in the city.

Date: June–July 2026, various times

W: release.com

Tickets: Individual day tickets & multi-day packages

A: Plateia Nerou, Faliro Waterfront, Athens

Athens City Festival

If Release Athens belongs to the waterfront and late-night concerts, Athens City Festival belongs to the city itself. Returning this May for its fifth edition, the month-long festival once again spreads across Athens with a packed programme of free events taking place in parks, museums, rooftops, courtyards, galleries and unexpected corners of the capital.

Organised by the Municipality of Athens, This is Athens City Festival has quickly become one of the best ways to experience the city beyond the usual landmarks. With more than 300 events taking place throughout May, the festival moves through neighbourhoods including Kerameikos, Kypseli, Thiseio and beyond, giving visitors a different perspective on Athens through music, food, film, art and street culture.

One evening might begin with a rooftop DJ set overlooking the Acropolis, another with an open-air screening in a hidden courtyard, a street party in Kerameikos or a live music performance that keeps the city awake well past midnight. Among this year’s highlights are the opening Athens Urban Picnic at Plato’s Academy, the popular Athens Asian Food Festival, Kerameikos Beat’s after-dark street parties and LTJ Bukem Live in Thiseio.

More than a traditional festival, Athens City Festival feels like an invitation into the rhythm of the city itself. It is as much about discovering neighbourhoods, local venues and the atmosphere of Athens in early summer as it is about the events on the programme.

This year’s edition closes on May 31 with the TiACF Closing Party on Athinas Street, where DJs and open-air sets bring the festival to an energetic finish in the centre of the city.

Date: 1–31 May 2026

W: cityfestival.thisisathens.org

Tickets: Free admission

A: Across various neighbourhoods and venues in Athens

Athens Epidaurus Festival

The Athens Epidaurus Festival remains one of the defining cultural events of summer in Athens. For nearly 70 years, the festival has shaped the city’s cultural calendar through theatre, music, dance, opera and large-scale performances staged in some of the country’s most remarkable venues.

Running from June through August, the programme unfolds across both Athens and Epidaurus, bringing together Greek and international artists in a lineup that moves between ancient drama, orchestral concerts, contemporary performance and experimental productions.

In Athens, many of the headline performances take place at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus, the historic open-air theatre beneath the Acropolis where audiences gather for opera, ballet, concerts and theatrical productions in one of Europe’s most atmospheric settings.

This year’s season carries added significance, with the Herodeion expected to close for extensive restoration works following the festival. Among the most anticipated performances at the venue are Lykke Li beneath the Acropolis, Einstürzende Neubauten and the Greek National Opera’s production of Medea.

At Pireos 260, the festival’s contemporary base in Athens, former industrial spaces are transformed into stages for theatre, dance, visual performance and experimental works by leading Greek and international artists. Highlights this year include Einstein on the Beach, Schliemann III by Heiner Goebbels and a special programme marking 20 years of Pireos 260 as part of the festival.

Beyond the capital, the festival continues at the Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus, where audiences travel for performances of Greek tragedy and comedy staged in one of the world’s most important ancient theatres. This year’s programme includes productions of The Persians, The Bacchae, Alcestis, Peace, The Trojan Women and Antigone.

Moving between ancient theatres, industrial stages and open-air performances beneath the Acropolis, the Athens Epidaurus Festival remains deeply tied to the identity of summer in Athens.

Date: June–August 2026

W: aefestival.gr

Tickets: Individual ticketed events via more.com

A: Odeon of Herodes Atticus, Pireos 260 (Athens) & Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus (Argolis)

Ejekt Festival

For another major night of live music under the Athens sky, Ejekt Festival returns to Plateia Nerou this summer with one of its strongest lineups in recent years. Since launching in 2005, the festival has become one of Athens’ biggest live music events, known for bringing international acts to the city’s waterfront and drawing large crowds each summer.

Set against the coast just outside central Athens, Ejekt has built its reputation on large-scale open-air concerts with a strong alternative and indie focus, combining major headline performances with the atmosphere of a European summer festival.

This year’s edition is headlined by Florence + The Machine, with John Legend, London Grammar and Sleaford Mods also joining the lineup for what is expected to be one of the standout concert nights of the season.

Part of what continues to make Ejekt so popular is its setting. As the sun goes down over the waterfront and thousands gather along the coast for live music, the festival captures a side of Athens in summer that feels energetic, relaxed and distinctly tied to the city’s outdoor culture.

For travellers planning part of their summer around live music in Athens, Ejekt remains one of the essential dates on the calendar.

Date: July 2026

W: ejekt.gr

Tickets: Individual ticketed events more.com

A: Plateia Nerou, Faliro Waterfront, Athens

Athens Open Air Film Festival

As the heat settles over Athens and evenings begin stretching later into the night, the Athens Open Air Film Festival returns as one of the city’s most loved summer traditions. Back for its 16th edition in 2026, the festival once again transforms Athens into a city-wide open-air cinema, with free screenings taking place in gardens, museum courtyards, pedestrian streets, parks, rooftops and unexpected corners of the capital after dark.

Few events feel so naturally part of summer in Athens. One night might lead to a restored classic screened in a neoclassical courtyard, another to a cult favourite beneath the Acropolis or a late-night film shown in a public square filled with locals and visitors alike.

More than simply a film programme, the festival has become part of the rhythm of the city during summer- an invitation to experience Athens differently once the temperatures drop and the streets fill again at night.

Following last year’s anniversary edition, which included more than 50 free screenings across the capital, this year’s programme is expected to once again combine restored classics, cult films, crowd favourites and landmark cinema in some of the city’s most memorable outdoor settings.

Relaxed, nostalgic and distinctly Athenian, the Athens Open Air Film Festival remains one of the most atmospheric cultural events of the summer season.

Date: August 2026

W: aoaff.gr

Tickets: Free admission

A: Various open-air locations across Athens

Athens International Film Festival

As summer in Athens begins giving way to September, the city’s cinematic calendar shifts indoors with the return of the Athens International Film Festival. Better known locally as Νihtes Premieras (Opening Nights), the festival has long marked the beginning of the new cultural season in the capital.

For more than three decades, the festival has brought together Greek premieres, international festival favourites, independent cinema, documentaries, retrospectives and some of the most anticipated films of the year. Screenings, talks and tribute programmes unfold across cinemas in central Athens, drawing directors, critics, cinephiles and audiences back into the city after the summer months.

Unlike the relaxed atmosphere of open-air screenings earlier in the season, Opening Nights feels more focused and cinematic- a return to dark theatres, late-night premieres and carefully curated programming centred around contemporary film culture.

It is also where many award-winning films from Cannes, Venice, Berlin and Sundance make their Greek debut, while emerging directors and independent productions are introduced to local audiences for the first time.

More than simply a film festival, Athens International Film Festival signals a shift in the mood of the city itself. Summer may still linger in the streets, but culturally, this is when Athens begins moving into a new season.

Date: 1 September–12 October 2026

W: aiff.gr

T: Individual ticketed screenings

A: Various cinemas across central Athens

Art Athina

For a different side of Athens during festival season, Art Athina brings the focus to contemporary art, design and culture. Returning in 2026, Greece’s leading contemporary art fair once again gathers galleries, artists, curators, collectors and cultural institutions for one of the city’s most important cultural events beyond the music and performance calendar.

As one of Europe’s longest-running contemporary art fairs, Art Athina has become an important meeting point between the Greek and international art scenes, offering a look at the ideas, artists and creative practices currently shaping contemporary culture.

Held at the Zappeion Megaron, the neoclassical landmark in the centre of Athens, the fair brings together galleries from Greece and abroad across a programme that includes contemporary art, installations, video works, design, performance and experimental projects.

More than a traditional art fair, Art Athina also unfolds as a wider cultural platform, with talks, screenings, curated projects and live events running alongside the gallery presentations. The result feels accessible not only to collectors and industry insiders, but also to visitors wanting to experience a more contemporary and creative side of the city.

For travellers interested in art, design and Athens’ evolving cultural identity, Art Athina remains one of the clearest expressions of the capital at its most international and current.

Date: 12-16 September 2026

W: art-athina.gr

T: Individual ticketed entry

A: Zappeion Megaron, Athens

Main image by This Is Athens City Festival

Athens festivals Athens summer Athens travel

Best Events Guide: March 2026 in Athens

March has arrived, and in Athens, this is when the city’s cultural side shifts into vibrant spring mode.

Athens’ key events in March bring together local and international artists, writers, comedians and street dancers with international film festivals, headline DJs, fashion presentations, thoughtful literary discussions, plus Independence Day commemorations- with plenty to engage both visitors and Athenians alike.

Insights Greece - Best Events Guide: March 2026 in Athens

Dimitris Vegas at Universe

Turn the volume all the way up, because this March Athens goes full festival mode with global EDM powerhouse Dimitri Vegas taking over Universe for a night built on pure adrenaline. From Tomorrowland main stages to sold-out arenas around the world, Dimitri Vegas has become synonymous with explosive drops, euphoric build-ups, and crowd-shaking basslines. Now, he brings that same high-impact energy to Athens for a late-night set that promises intensity from the very first beat.

Expect a full sensory experience at Universe, one of Athens’ largest and most technologically advanced venues, where the night is designed to feel less like a club and more like a global electronic music spectacle. Lights, visuals, and sound combine to create a production on the scale of a festival stage, making this an event that both long-time fans and newcomers will remember. If you’re planning one major night out this March, this is the one to mark on your calendar.

Entry: 20-100€

Date & Time: 6 March 2026, 11pm

W: more.com

A: Universe Multiveniue 87 Kifissou Avenue, Egaleo

KINO Athens- International Independent Film Festival

One of Athens’ most anticipated cultural events returns this March with a wide-ranging celebration of independent cinema. The KINO Athens International Independent Film Festival showcases bold European projects, bringing together emerging and established filmmakers through a curated program of features, shorts, documentaries, and experimental works from around the world.

Taking place in the heart of Athens (across multiple venues in the city) the 4th edition of the KINO Athens film festival will showcase over 160 films from more than 40 countries- celebrating daring storytelling and new cinematic voices. The festival will open with the Greek premiere of Stereo Girls, directed by award-winning filmmaker Caroline Deroua Peano, a powerful, character-driven drama that explores generational tensions and will close with Un anno di scuola, by Italian director Laura Samani. Audiences also have the chance to catch Becoming Madonna, with never-before-seen photos, footage and recently uncovered audio tapes of one of the most powerful and controversial female pop star on the planet.

Entry: Free

Date: 12-20 March 2026

W: kinoathens.org

A: Various venues across Athens

SOLACE- Fashion Design Expo & Pop Up

Athens’ creative scene takes centre stage this March with the return of SOLACE, a dynamic celebration of independent fashion and contemporary design. The expo brings together emerging and established designers, artists, and makers who are pushing the boundaries of modern style through innovation, craftsmanship, and sustainability. Hosted at the iconic Athens Conservatoire, this edition promises its largest showcase yet, with over 150 designers presenting curated collections, limited-edition pieces, and experimental concepts across fashion, accessories, and broader creative design. Visitors can explore pop-up exhibitions, discover new labels, and connect directly with the creative minds shaping Greece’s contemporary design landscape.

On March 7, SOLACE kicks off with a pre-party that blends electronic music, live art, and fashion performances, echoing the runway moments where major fashion houses pair cutting-edge music with style. The full lineup will be shared on social media, offering a first glimpse into an immersive night that celebrates creativity at every turn.

Pre-party tickets: 25-40€

Entry: Free

Date & Time: 15 Μarch 2026, 12pm-10pm

W: solace

A: Athens Conservatoire, Rigillis &, Vas. Georgiou B 17-19, Athens

Kostyantyn- “Victim of Love”

Athens’ English-speaking comedy scene continues to grow, and this March laughter takes centre stage with Kostyantyn’s solo show, Victim of Love. Presented by the Athens English Comedy Club, the performance brings Vienna’s famously well-dressed comedian and his sharp, charismatic storytelling to the city for one memorable night.

Blending personal anecdotes with clever observations on romance, relationships, and life’s awkward moments, the show delivers humour that is both relatable and refreshingly honest. Audiences can expect a fast-paced stand-up performance full of cultural insight, laugh-out-loud moments, and an evening that highlights the growing vibrancy of Athens’ international comedy scene.

Entry: 10€

Date & Time: 15 Μarch 2026, 9pm

W: more.com

A: Eliart Theatre, Votanikos

Michalis Kiousis- “The Spaces in Between”

Athens’ contemporary art scene welcomes a striking new solo exhibition by Greek artist Michalis Kiousis this March in Kolonaki. The Spaces in Between presents a series of large-scale works that explore memory, identity, and the fluid, ever-shifting notion of place. At the heart of Kiousis’ practice is the human figure, often set within layered environments where urban life, cultural references, and fragments of lived experience intersect. His richly textured paintings weave together architectural forms, organic shapes, and symbolic details, creating spaces that feel at once familiar and dreamlike.

Using handmade oil pastels and bold material surfaces, Kiousis constructs compositions that are immersive, expressive, and full of movement. Tradition and contemporary life, ritual and everyday moments, structure and spontaneity coexist seamlessly within his visual language. Curated by Maria Almpani, the exhibition encourages visitors to slow down, observe closely, and step into a world shaped by memory, imagination, and cultural dialogue. Thoughtful and visually compelling, The Spaces in Between is a must-visit on any spring gallery itinerary.

Entry: Free

Date & Time: 12 Μarch-18 April 2026, 7pm-10pm

W: galleryalma.com

A: Skoufa 24Α, Kolonaki

Stillborn- by Efthymis Christou

Athens’ contemporary performance scene presents Stillborn, a new physical solo by creator and performer Efthymis Christou, staged for three consecutive Fridays at Steehos Space this March. Inspired by the concept of l’appel du vide– the inner pull toward the void- the work unfolds as an exploration of vulnerability, resilience, and the human instinct to keep moving forward. Blending dance, visual imagery, and poetic stage action, the performance creates an immersive experience that moves beyond conventional storytelling.

Rather than following a linear narrative, Stillborn builds through a series of striking physical moments that reflect emotional tension, inner conflict, and the search for meaning. Through movement and atmosphere, audiences are drawn into an intimate space where fragility and strength coexist. Developed in collaboration with three choreographers at different stages of the creative process, the performance offers a layered, visually compelling addition to Athens’ experimental arts calendar.

Entry: 13€ General | 10€ Reduced

Date & Time: 20 Μarch-3 April 2026, 3 Fridays, 9pm

W: ticketservice.com

A: Steehos Space, Dipyllou 7, Psyrri

Falstaff at the Greek National Opera

Giuseppe Verdi’s final opera returns to the Greek National Opera this March in a revival of its acclaimed production at the Stavros Niarchos Hall. Inspired by Shakespeare’s The Merry Wives of Windsor, the comic masterpiece follows Sir John Falstaff (charming, delusional, and endlessly entertaining) as his romantic schemes unravel with hilarious consequences.

Directed by Stephen Langridge, the production is set in 1930s England, a world of social conventions, sharp wit, and playful satire. Verdi’s brilliant score balances humour with emotional depth, building to the celebrated finale that reminds audiences why Falstaff remains one of opera’s most joyous and enduring characters.

Entry: 15-90€

Date & Time: 1 -5 March 2026, 7.30pm, Sunday: 6.30pm

W: tickeservice.gr

A: Greek National Opera, SNFCC, 364 Syngrou Avenue, Kallithea

Sir Don McCullin- Life, Death and Everything in Between

For the first time in Greece, legendary British photojournalist Sir Don McCullin presents a major exhibition at Technopolis City of Athens. Featuring 47 powerful photographs, the show spans his decades-long career documenting war, hardship, and everyday life with uncompromising honesty.

From conflict zones in Vietnam, Cambodia, and Lebanon to scenes of working-class Britain, McCullin’s images capture moments of struggle, resilience, and human dignity. Direct and deeply affecting, the exhibition offers a rare opportunity to experience some of the most iconic photographs of the 20th century up close.

Entry: Free

Date & Time: 1-12 March 2026, 10am – 10pm, Thursday 12/03: 10am – 3pm

A: Technopolis City of Athens, 100 Pireos, Gazi

Free Museum & Archaeological Site Sundays in Athens

The Hellenic Ministry of Culture has designated Sunday 1 and Sunday 15 March 2026, as free-entry days for all state-run museums, archaeological sites, and monuments in Athens. These Sundays offer visitors the chance to explore some of the city’s most important cultural institutions and historic landmarks without an admission fee, making them particularly popular with both locals and travellers.

Free admission also applies on 6 March, Melina Mercouri Memorial Day, and 25 March, Greek National Holiday, providing additional opportunities to experience Greece’s rich cultural heritage. Whether planning a full day of museum visits or a casual cultural outing, these dates are among the best ways to explore Athens’ history, art, and archaeology entirely free of charge.

Athens International Literature Festival 2026

Athens welcomes a new cultural highlight this March with the inaugural Athens International Literature Festival, taking place from 27–29 March at the Technopolis City of Athens. With free entry, the three-day festival brings together international authors and readers for conversations centered on contemporary literature and global themes. The program features writers such as David Szalay, Paul Lynch, and Nicole Krauss, and opens with a keynote from Nobel Prize laureate László Krasznahorkai.

Conceived as a lasting cultural institution, the festival offers a carefully curated programme of talks, discussions, and parallel events, inviting attendees to engage directly with internationally recognised authors while discovering emerging voices. Themes range from social change to global challenges, while also reflecting on Athens itself as a city of stories. Set against the industrial heritage of Technopolis in Gazi, the festival provides a welcoming, outward-looking space for readers, writers, journalists, and culture lovers from Greece and beyond- a first edition designed to establish Athens as a destination for literary conversation and exchange.

Entry: Free

Date & Time: 27-29 March 2026

Website: ailf.gr/en/ailf-

A: Technopolis City of Athens, 100 Pireos, Gazi

Athens Street Dance Festival

Stylin’ The Beat returns for its seventh edition this March, cementing its status as one of Greece’s leading international street dance events. Taking place on 21–22 March at PLΥFA, the two-day festival brings together dancers, judges, and crews from across Europe for high-energy battles, creative showcases, and a celebration of street culture at its most authentic.

Organised by the award-winning Hood Groove Management- behind Greece’s most prominent street dance events such as Breaking Bad in Athens, South Break Jam in Chania, and the Triple X Battle, the festival benefits from a legacy of expertise and international collaboration. This year, judges from Italy, Switzerland, and Cyprus will preside over competitions spanning hip-hop, breaking, and contemporary urban choreography, while dancers of all levels compete in international preliminaries and main-stage battles. Stylin’ The Beat Vol.7 is not just a competition; it’s a cultural moment where the energy of the streets, creativity, and performance converge. Whether you’re a dance enthusiast, a performer, or simply curious about Athens’ urban culture, the festival promises an electrifying weekend of cutting-edge movement, music, and community.

Entry: 12€

Date 21-22 March 2026

W: plyfa.space

A: PLYFA, Building 7A, Korytsas 39, Athens

Greek Independence Day- March 25

Each year on 25 March, Athens comes to a standstill to mark Greek Independence Day, commemorating the start of the Greek War of Independence in 1821. The day also coincides with the religious holiday of the Annunciation, observed by the Orthodox Church, creating a rare overlap of civic and spiritual significance. The city’s grand military parade begins at 11am, progressing from Vasilissis Amalias Avenue past the Hellenic Parliament, with officials in attendance, including the President of Greece. The procession continues down Panepistimiou Street, where crowds line both sides in front of iconic neo-classical landmarks such as the Academy of Athens, the National Bank of Greece, and the National Library, before concluding at Omonia Square. To secure a good vantage point, it’s recommended to arrive at Syntagma Square at least by 10am or along Panepistimiou Street for an optimal view.

Religious observances also take place across the city on March 25, with churches such as the Metropolitan Cathedral in Athens holding major services, commemorating the archangel Gabriel’s announcement to the Virgin Mary that she would bear the son of God. A local culinary tradition accompanies the celebration- bakaliaros skordalia, a fried salted cod served with a garlicky potato and olive oil sauce, is available from tavernas throughout the city, allowing locals and visitors to taste this special Greek custom.

Oenorama-Onassis Stegi

The annual wine exhibition Oenorama returns with renewed energy at the Onassis Stegi, introducing a refreshed venue for Greece’s largest wine showcase. Bringing together hundreds of wineries and more than 2500 labels from across the country, the event offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the diversity and evolution of the Greek vineyard. Winemakers, industry professionals, wine journalists, and enthusiasts gather to taste new releases, discover emerging producers, and exchange insights on the latest trends shaping the wine world.

Alongside the main exhibition, curated tastings and thematic presentations highlight indigenous grape varieties and key wine-producing regions, offering a deeper understanding of Greece’s rich terroir. With its contemporary setting, and expanded program, Oenorama continues to stand as a key meeting point for the Greek wine community. Tip: Easy transfer Oenorama offers a free shuttle bus service from Syggrou Metro Station – Fix during all day.

Entry: 10€-65€

Date & Time: 13-16 March, Friday 5-9pm, Saturday-Monday 10am – 9pm

W: oenorama.com

A: Onassis Ready, Strati Tsirka 2, 18233 Agios Ioannis Rentis

Main Image: Being Madonna | Courtesy of KINO Athens

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Best Events Guide: September in Athens

Summer may be behind us, but Athens shows no signs of slowing down!

As the city shifts into September, the calendar is packed with concerts, festivals, exhibitions, and more.

At IN+SIGHTS GREECE, we’re embracing the new season, and to help you do the same, we’ve rounded up the best events happening across the city this month.

Primer Music Festival

Athens’ biggest electronic dance music festival returns, bringing world-class DJs and live acts to the city’s premier stages. Expect high-energy sets and unforgettable performances from global names including Fideles, Armin van Buuren, Alesso, and more, across the epic Lunar and Helios stages.

Entry: 140€- 350€

Date & Time: 6-7 September, 5pm- 11pm

Address: Olympic Athletic Center of Athens (O.A.K.A.), Athens, Greece

W: primermusicfestival.com

Plisskën Festival

September sets the stage for electronic music fans, and Plisskën delivers with two days of genre-bending techno and house beats. Known for pushing boundaries, this cutting-edge festival transforms Athens into an urban sonic playground, with three immersive stages and an international lineup. Highlights include Brutalism 3000, Cloé Robinson, and Confidence Man, whose infectious sound has already racked up millions of streams worldwide.

Entry: 37€ day ticket, 70€ 2-days ticket

Date & Time: 12-13 September 2025, 6:30pm

Address: Peiraios 260, Athens

W: plisskenfestival.com

Dance Residencies Open Days

For three evenings, Technopolis becomes a vibrant stage as 29 artists and collectives showcase bold 20-minute works developed during the Greek Dance Workers Union’s summer residency program. The performances span dance, video, and conversation, which is an eclectic mix that moves between the deeply personal and the sharply political, all set within the striking Gasholder 1 Amphitheatre.

Entry: Free

Date & Time: 4-6 September, 6pm-10pm

Address:Technopolis, 100 Pireos, Gazi

W: athens-technopolis.gr

Rolling Stones Symphonic Tribute

Rock meets symphony at the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Centre, where Miltos Logiadis leads the National Symphony Orchestra and Choir of ERT in a powerful tribute to the Rolling Stones. With arrangements by acclaimed pianist and composer Achilleas Wastor, the concert reimagines classics like Satisfaction and Paint It Black through soaring strings, bold brass, and dynamic percussion, blending rock ’n’ roll energy with sweeping orchestral soundscapes.

Entry: Free

Date & Time: 7 September, 9pm

Address: Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Centre, 364 Syngrou Avenue, Kallithea

W: snfcc.org

Ludovico Einaudi

Italian composer and pianist Ludovico Einaudi returns to Athens for a mesmerizing open-air concert at the iconic Panathenaic Stadium. The performance blends his signature minimalism with deep emotion, featuring beloved classics alongside new works from The Summer Portraits, performed with a full orchestra. An unforgettable evening awaits under the Athenian sky.

Entry: 65€

Date & Time: 26 September, 9pm

Address: Kallimarmaro Stadium

W: more.com

Athens Coffee Festival

Greece’s largest celebration of coffee returns, bringing together coffee lovers, connoisseurs, and curious newcomers alike. Explore premium coffee varieties, meet renowned coffee brands, and enjoy expertly crafted brews from award-winning baristas. Whether you’re in it for the taste, the culture, or just your caffeine fix, the festival promises a rich and flavourful experience for all.

Entry: One-day ticket is 5 euros, 3-day ticket is 12 euros, kids under 12 is free.

Date & Time: 27- 29 September 2025, 11am to 8pm

Address: Peiraios 100, Athens, cultural venue of “Technopolis”

W: athenscoffeefestival.gr

European Heritage Days 2025

Greece joins the continent in celebrating European Heritage Days 2025 under the theme Architectural Heritage: “Windows to the Past, Doors to the Future,” marking the 50th anniversary of the European Architectural Heritage Year. Visitors in Athens can enjoy free entry to archaeological sites and museums, offering a unique opportunity to explore the city’s rich history and architectural treasures.

Date: September 13- 14, 2025

Εntry: Free entrance to all of Athens’ archaeological sites, museums and monuments of the state.

W: europeanheritagedays.com

Gypsy Kings Feat Nicolas Reyes

The Gypsy Kings, featuring Nicolas Reyes, return to Athens for a vibrant performance at the iconic Lycabettus Theatre. Their timeless hits, including Bamboléo and Volare, continue to captivate audiences worldwide, blending flamenco, rumba, salsa, and pop. Expect a night of rhythm, nostalgia, and unforgettable energy atop the city’s famous hilltop venue.

Date: 21 September, 2025

A: Lycabettus Hill, Kolonaki

W: more.com

Art Athina

Art Athina 2025 returns to the historic Zappeion Mansion, bringing together leading Greek and international galleries for one of Europe’s longest-running contemporary art fairs. Founded in 1993 by the Hellenic Art Galleries Association, the fair presents painting, sculpture, installations, and multimedia works, complimented by a dynamic program of talks and parallel events. Against the backdrop of the Zappeion’s neoclassical grandeur, visitors can experience a vibrant dialogue between tradition and contemporary creativity.

Where: Zappeion Mansion, 9a, Valaoritou Street, Athens

When: 18 – 22 September 2025

W: art-athina.gr

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Athens’ Best Cocktail and Wine Festivals in March 2024

March in Athens is a celebration of Greece’s wine and bar culture. And we’ve rounded up the best places for you to taste the finest drops!

Explore cozy wine bars, indulge in tastings led by international experts, and join lively festivals showcasing Greece’s rich viticultural heritage. From intimate gatherings to grand events, immerse yourself in zesty delights awaiting in the heart of the city.

BKHS 4.0 Wine Festival in Romatzo

The return of Bacchae, Athens’ most alternative wine festival, is an unmissable event! Modern Greek artisanal winemakers loyal to organic/ biodynamic farming, and inspired by their love of hands-off vinification, are ready to welcome visitors to the celebration of Bacchae. Producers from all over Greece meet for two full days of winemaking and works of art! The Wine Fair will be accompanied by a series of talented musicians performing live on stage at Romantso- lifting the mood and energy to help remind guests of ancient Greek Dionysian feasts, which were full of wine, music, and fun!

Entry: €20-30

Date: 1-3 March, 2024

Address: Anaxagoras 3 – 5, Bios Romantso – Athens, Attiki

Tickets: more.com

Website: Bacchae.gr

Whiskey Live Athens

Whiskey is not a “quick drink”. It’s a pleasure. And now more than 300 rare and special whiskeys from Scotland, Ireland, and America, as well as some “secret gems” from all over the world, will be offered at an exciting whiskey-tasting event in Athens, that’s designed to please all those who love the golden “king” of spirits. At Whiskey Live you will find unique ranges from small producers to limited edition bottles from well-known giant companies. And if you prefer clear spirits, head over to the Gin Garden where you’ll discover special gin labels offered for tasting. Whiskey Live, currently held in more than 30 cities worldwide, started in Paris and London in 2000 and is considered the world’s largest and longest-running whiskey event. Of course, there will also be a liquor shop where you can purchase the labels, as well as premium bottling at special prices, plus a cocktail section, where excellent mixologists will prepare well-known and beloved cocktails, and a street food corner with delicious delicacies to accompany your drink of choice.

Entry: Day ticket: €30, Daily combo (cocktail + food): €40, Two-day ticket: €50

Date & Time: 2-3 March 2024, 1 pm

Address: Technopolis, 100 Pireos, Gazi

Website: Athens-technopolis.gr

Oenorama: Largest Exhibition of Greek Wines

For all those who cherish wine, Oenorama is one of those can’t-miss experiences! Since 1994, this popular event has thrived, marking its 30th year as Greece’s premier wine exhibition. With 250+ exhibitors showcasing over 2,500 wines and spirits, it draws 10,000+ Greek and international visitors each year. The exhibition includes the Tasting Square where new releases can be sampled in optimal conditions, the Wine Bar of Wine Revelations where special wines are showcased, the Wine Revelations where future industry stars are spotlighted, and the Winemaking section where state-of-the-art wine equipment is displayed.

Entry: €12-40

Date: 2-4 March, 2024

Address: Zappeio Megaro, Vasilissis Olgas Avenue, Athens

W: hoenorama.com

Spoiled Bar- Show

Spoiled Bar, one of Athens’ best cocktail bars presents a cool event where bartenders from all over Greece are invited to participate in a fun and creative challenge. The theme is “The tour of Greece in 7 glasses” – aiming to highlight the unique raw ingredients of the country, which we either don’t know or have not been given the attention they deserve. It will highlight 7 unique trips, 7 destinations, 7 bartenders from all over Greece, and many more from well-known bars in Athens. So for all you cocktail lovers, on March 14, head over to one of the capital’s most popular bar shows that’s been created by well-known local bartenders Thanos Sideris and Panos Kallimanis.

Entry: Free

Date: 14 March, 2024

Address: 18 Megalou Alexandrou, Dafni

W: spoiledbar.gr

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What’s On In Athens: November 13

From opera and baroque to ballet and string quartets- there are so many fabulous performances to catch this week in Athens, and we’ve rounded up a selection of the best ones that are not to be missed.

Les Éclairs – Philippe Hersant

The contemporary opera “Les Éclairs” is the Greek National Opera’s second co-production with the Opéra Comique (Paris), one of Europe’s most important opera houses. At this national premiere, and for three performances only –inside the Stavros Niarchos Hall at the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center– Greek audiences will get the chance to discover the third opera to be written by the multi-award winning French composer Philippe Hersant, with a libretto by the internationally acclaimed French author Jean Echenoz. The opera is a musical journey through New York during the Industrial Revolution that traces the turbulent life of the ethnic Serb cosmopolitan dandy and “mad” scientist Nikola Tesla.

Entry: Ticket prices €10- €60

Date & Time: 16,19,21 November, 7.30 pm (Sunday 6.30 pm)

Αddress: Stavros Niarchos Hall of the Greek National Opera

Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center
Syggrou Avenue 364, Kallithea

Website: nationalopera.gr

Tickets ticketservices.gr

Quatuor Ébène

With their fresh approach to tradition and open engagement with new forms, the renowned French string quartet Quatuor Ébène has successfully reached a wide audience of young listeners and conveyed their talent in regular master classes at the Paris Conservatoire. Their global tour is now coming to Athens where guests can enjoy jazz improvisation, Bartók, and Haydn. The foursome is a hit with both young and old audiences because of the energy in their performances and the spirit of tradition renewal that sets them apart.

Entry: €12 – €30

Date & Time: 16 November 2023, 8.30 pm

Address: The Athens Concert Hall (Megaron), 115 Vasilissis Sofias Avenue, Athens

Tickets: webtics.megaron.gr

Χ: The Life and Times of Malcolm X

Anthony Davis’ ground-breaking opera “X: The Life and Times of Malcolm X” will be presented at the Met and broadcast as part of the MET HD LIVE program, live at the Concert Hall Athens. The new staging of Davis’ play, which premiered in 1986, is directed by the famous Tony nominee director Robert O’Hara. In this production, Malcolm ‒ one of the most important figures of the African-American civil rights movement, is presented as an everyday man whose story transcends space and time. In the lead role is baritone Will Liverman.

Entry: €8-€25

Date & Time: 18 November 2023, 7:55 pm

Address: The Athens Concert Hall (Megaron), 115 Vasilissis Sofias Avenue, Athens

Buy Tickets: webtics.megaron.gr

6th Baroque Music Festival

The Baroque Music Festival returns to the GNO Alternative Stage and the historical hall of the Parnassos Literary Society – and is set to take audiences on a journey through the enchanting world of Baroque music. This year’s festival, curated by the prolific cellist Dimos Goudaroulis, includes four singular concerts revolving around the year 1723. It will feature concerts by distinguished artists (Lucile Boulanger, Dimos Gourdaroulis) who will enrich the colourful palette of baroque music with sonatas for violin, cello, basso, and gamba choosing sonatas by famous composers such as Tartini, Bach, and Caporale.

Entry: Ticket prices: €10-€15

Date & Time: 13,15,18, November, 8.30 at Parnassos Philological Association & 19 November, 7.30 pm at Alternative Stage of the National Opera – SNFCC

Address: Parnassos Philological Association (8 Agios Georgios Karytsis Square, Athens) & Alternative Stage of the National Opera – SNFCC, Syggrou Avenue 364, Kallithea

Website: megaron.gr

Tickets: ticketservices.gr

Molly Nillson Concert

Swedish singer and producer, Molly Nillson is known for her magical melodies and touchingly clever lyrics that bring nostalgic pop, on a journey through life and death, with love and trouble. And now her stately approach to synth pop is coming to Athens where audiences can enjoy her swooping synth melodies and the grace of her vocals.

Entry: €20

Date & Time: 18 November, 9 pm

Address: 16 Ogigou, Psirri, 10654 Athens

Tickets: tickets.public.gr

Colors

The Greek National Opera Ballet presents the modern dance triptych titled Colors – choreographed by Diego Tortelli, Eva Georgitsopoulou and Konstantinos Rigos. The performance follows the successful presentation of the triptychs Human Behaviour and Human Nature on the GNO Alternative Stage and brings the ensemble’s dancers face to face with modern dance forms, mixed with the musical sensualism of late Romanticism.

Entry: €15- €20

Date 12,16,17,18 November 2023

Tickets: ticketservice.gr

Αddress: Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center, Syggrou Avenue 364, Kallithea

Website: nationalopera.gr

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What’s On In Athens: November 6

November keeps getting better and better thanks to some amazing cultural events taking place around Athens.

From the cool Athens’ Bar Week to the popular Authentic Marathon- there’s such a great variety- and we’ve rounded up some of our favourites right here for you.

Αthens’ Bar Week 2023

Some of the world’s best bars are taking over the city of Athens this week- with unique parties, events, and fine entertainment experiences for everyone over 18. It’s thanks to The Athens Bar Show, an annual educational expo for bar and hospitality professionals, which will take place on November 7 and 8 at the Technopolis of Athens. And from Monday, November 6th to Thursday, November 9th, the world’s best bars are teaming up with the Athenian bar scene to transform the city into a cocktail lovers’ paradise! Bar take-overs, pop-up bars, fine-dining tours, and masterclasses, are some events that will be held as part of Athens Bar Week. Taking place all over the city, this includes The Great Tuesday Club takeover at Avra FS Athens, which promises 16 cocktails that will travel you to 6 cities!

Date: 6 – 9 November, 2023

Address: All over Athens

Website: athensbarweek.gr

Julia Kent & Tilemachos Moussas

Canadian cellist and composer Julia Kent and composer, guitarist and multi-instrumentalist Telemachos Mousas join forces for a one-off performance at the Athens Conservatory. Kent, a member of Anthony & the Johnsons, creates magical sounds using live looping and real-time sound processing on cello and electronics. Her compositions have also graced films, television, dance and theater performances, and has released six personal albums. At this unforgettable music night, she will be accompanied by Telemachos Mousas, known for his award-winning compositions that are a combination of speech, poetry, classical music, jazz, and electro-acoustic techniques.

Entry: €22

Date & Time: 11 November, 9 pm

Tickets ticketservices.gr

Address: Ioannis Despotopoulos Amphitheater, Athens Conservatory, Rigillis & Vasileos Georgiou II 17-19, Αthens

Spyros Louis Cup Tour

Α truly unique opportunity to admire and learn the story about one of the most important items in the history of world sport. Designed by Michel Bréal for the champion of the first Marathon race – the Greek runner Spyros Louis – the Silver Cup was awarded at the first modern Olympic Games in Athens in 1896. Give yourself the chance to learn more about the first Marathon race and the Cup’s historical significance in a free tour offered by the SNFCC (with tours offered in English).

Entry: Free by online preregistration

Date & Time: 8-11 November | one-hour tours at 10 am, 11 am, 4 pm, 5 pm, 6 pm

Αddress: Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center
Syggrou Avenue 364, 17674 Kallithea

Website: SNFCC.org

Dance Me – Music by Leonard Cohen

The amazing performance tribute to the great Leonard Cohen is finally coming to Athens! Dance Me – Music by Leonard Cohen is an exclusive creation inspired by the rich and profound work of Montréal-based poet, artist and songwriter, Leonard Cohen. Approved by Cohen while still alive, this amazing homage to the famed artist evokes the grand cycles of existence, as described in Cohen’s deeply reflective music and poems. Three internationally renowned choreographers were entrusted with putting movement to Cohen’s legendary songs: Andonis Foniadakis, Annabelle Lopez Ochoa and Ihsan Rustem. Their powerful and profound choreographic world reflective of Cohen’s singular work is brought to life by Ballets Jazz Montréal’s 14 artists and the strong, bold dramaturgy of Eric Jean.

Entry: Ticket prices: €18 – €100

Date & Time: 11-12 November, 8 pm

Tickets: webtics.megaron.gr

Address: The Athens Concert Hall (Megaron), 115 Vasilissis Sofias Avenue, Athens

Website: megaron.gr

Athens Authentic Marathon

Athens hosts its 40th Classic Marathon this weekend. A popular event recognised as the world’s original modern marathon, it attracts thousands of participants and spectators from around the globe. According to the organisers, the Athens Marathon allows runners the opportunity to follow in the footsteps of the legendary Greek soldier Pheidippides who first ran the 42 km route from the battlefield of Marathon Beach to Athens in 490 BC. Tip: for the non-runners, you may still enjoy this popular event by going to the Panathenaic Stadium and catching the atmosphere. Pro tip: bring something soft to sit on.

Entry: €35-€120

Date: 11-12 November 2023

Website: Athensauthenticmarathon.gr

Main Image Courtesy of Avra Bar

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What’s On in Athens: October 31

We are officially in the heart of autumn and the first week of November is bringing with it some exciting events taking place throughout different venues – including musical stages, galleries and theatres all across Athens- and we’ve rounded up the ones you don’t want to miss.

Modern Love Exhibition

How does flirting in the age of social media and online dating apps work? Can love blossom in the “mind” of a robot or the wreckage of a lost life? Are intimacy and tenderness measurable quantities? The exhibition of the National Museum of Contemporary Art entitled “Modern Love: The Love in the Years of Cold Intimacy” raises all these questions and more. This popular project is the result of a fruitful collaboration between 24 artists and the artistic director of the museum, Katerina Gregou.

Entry: €8

Date & Time: 1-5 November, Tuesday-Sunday 11 am-7 pm

Address: Kallirois Ave. & Amvr. Frantzi Street, National Museum of Contemporary Art, Athens

T: +30 211 101 9000

“Witches of Salem”

Arthur Miller’s fascinating theatrical allegory will be broadcast at Athens Concert Hall, straight from the Olivier Stage of London’s National Theater. Lindsey Turner directs the new, contemporary production of the great American author’s masterpiece, with Erin Doherty and Brendan Cowell in the leading roles. Miller’s play “The Salem Witches” is based on true events that occurred in Salem, Massachusetts in 1692, which resulted in the hanging of twenty innocent people.

Entry: Ticket prices: €8 – €15

Date & Time: 2 November, 8 pm

Address: The Athens Concert Hall (Megaron), 115 Vasilissis Sofias Avenue, Athens,

Website: megaron.gr

Some Shreds: Happening at the Edge

Νo need to head to the far East to discover the next generation of Hong Kong artistic talents, as the Phoenix Athens Gallery is presenting them in its latest exhibition, right in the heart of Athens. “Some Shreds: Happening at the Edge” is a cool group exhibition showcasing artworks of several artistic media including visual art, video installations, choreography, and live music performances.

Entry: Free

Date & Time: 1-3 November, Monday-Friday 7-11 pm, weekends by appointment

Address: Phoenix Athens, 87 Asklipiou, Exarchia 114 72

Website: phoenixathens.org

“Μorfes” Exhibition at Sotiropoulos Art Gallery

Sotiropoulos Art Gallery opens the autumn artistic season with the group exhibition of paintings entitled “Morfes” (forms). Curated by Fotis Sotiropoulos (gallery manager), it’s part of the gallery’s new initiative “NEW EYES | Contemporary, young creators”, which aims to promote a range of new artists. The focus of this exhibition is the human form through the conversation of five contemporary visual artists. Realism, expressionist writing and the abstract mood coexist fruitfully in this project, allowing the audience to appreciate the varied approaches each artist has taken to representing the human form.

Entry: Free

Date & Time: Tuesday, Thursday, Friday 12 am-8 pm | Wednesday, Saturday 12 am- 4 pm

Address: Mavromixali 3, Athens

Website: Sotiropoulos.gr

Athens English Comedy Club

The Athens English Comedy Club is back and better than ever! Founded in 2019, this club is the only place in Athens where performances are all in English. Whether you’re a seasoned comedian or just looking for a good laugh, you can join if you are looking for a night of live comedy- just make sure to bring your best punch line!

Entry: €10- €17

Date & Time: 1-5 November, 8:40 pm

Address: Eliart Theater, 127 Konstantinopoleos, Gazi

Website: more.com

Samara Joy & Trio

Samara Joy’s career took off when she won the Sarah Vaughn International Jazz Singing Competition in 2019. Since then, the international press has idolized the American diva for her rich voice and velvet vocal timbre. Being named a worthy successor to Ella Fitzgerald and Billie Holiday, Samara was also awarded two Grammys in 2023, in the categories of Best New Artist and Best Jazz Vocal Album. This is a concert you don’t want to miss if you love jazz music!

Entry: €14- €35

Date & Time: 5 November, 8:30 pm

Address: The Athens Concert Hall (Megaron), 115 Vasilissis Sofias Avenue, Athens,

Tickets: megaron.gr

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What’s On In Athens This Week: October 16

October may be coming to an end, but the fabulous events taking place this month keep coming. We’ve rounded up the best festivals and concerts taking place in Athens this week that you shouldn’t miss!

Jordi Savall Concert

Jordi Savall and his orchestra are bringing back the magic of viols, the lesser-known relative of the violin family, with their upcoming performance at the Athens Concert Hall (Megaron), Savall’s orchestra. They will be joined by the women’s section of the National Choir of Catalonia and the program features two important symphonic compositions by Felix Mendelssohn: Symphony No. 4 in A major, Opus 90, known as the “Italian,” and Ein Sommernachstraum (A Midsummer Night’s Dream). Don’t miss the chance to experience the beauty of viols and enjoy a night of exquisite music.

Entry: €12-65

Date & Time: 16 October 2023, 8.30 pm

Address: The Athens Concert Hall (Megaron), 115 Vasilissis Sofias Avenue, Athens

Tickets: megaron.gr

Lubomyr Melnyk at the Athens Concert Hall

Don’t miss the chance to witness a musical genius in action! Lubomyr Melnyk, the Ukrainian pianist and creator of “continuous music,” will showcase his incredible ability to play up to 19 notes per second with each hand, at the Athens Concert Hall (Megaron). With over 120 solo and double piano compositions, Melnyk’s music is transcendent and captures his audience with every note.

Entry: €9-45

Date & Time: 18 October 2023, 8.30 pm

Address: The Athens Concert Hall (Megaron), 115 Vasilissis Sofias Avenue, Athens, 115 21

Tickets: megaron.gr

Τhe “Butterfly Effect”

For the first time, an exhibition will be held on the premises of the most famous textile industry in Greece, named Petalouda (butterfly). A project curated by Kostas Prapoglou, here forty-one visual artists (such as Eozen Agopian, Klitsa Antoniou, Orit Ben Shitrit, Robert Cahen, Irene Carvajal, Susan Daboll, Lydia Dabassina, Maria Loizidou, Despina Meimaroglou, Nikos Tranos) rise though their work with social issues related to Greek industrial history and the role of women, the meditative dimension of manual labor and the interconnectedness of events- via installations, videos, sculptures, soundscapes, and paintings.

Entry: Free

Date & Time: 16-22 October 2023

Address: Petalouda Textile Industry, 41 Kifisou Ave, Athens

Petit Paris d’Athènes Festival

This year marks the 10th anniversary of this popular event that will take place in the area extending from Karaiskaki and Vathi Squares to Larissa Station- where several streets are named after 19th-century French dignitaries. A beloved celebration of Athenian culture, visitors will be able to see more than 500 artists, creatives and intellectuals participate, throughout selected venues (theatres, music stages, galleries, squares, pedestrian streets, conservatories, schools, neoclassical-historical buildings, hotels and other alternative spaces) in events ranging from music concerts to art galleries. This year’s theme “Love in the arts”, will see all works inspired by amour.

Entry: Free admission

Date: 19 October 2023 – 29 October 2023

Venue: Various places around Athens

Website: mikroparisis.eu

Pink Floyd Tribute

Pink Floyd Tribute band, Echoes, is one of the best tribute bands worldwide and continue to carry with it the rich legacy of a band known as one of the greatest of all time. Echoes have collaborated so far with famous musicians such as Michael Sadler, Midge Ure and Geoff Tate and in this live performance they will take their audience on a big emotional journey with classic tracks from the “Best of Pink Floyd” and a setlist that also includes some of their almost unknown works.

Entry: €20-58

Date & Time: 20 October 2023, 9 pm

Address: Christmas Theater, 137 Veikou Ave., Galatsi

Tickets: more.com

Passenger Live

Passenger, the performer, and composer of “Let Her Go”, one of the biggest hit singles of the 21st century, will be in Athens for his first concert in Greece. The memorable British singer/songwriter whose song has made YouTube history, with over 3.3 billion views – continues to enjoy worldwide appeal. In total, Passenger has released 14 albums, with 8 of them entering the top 40 of the UK charts. And in his first appearance in Athens, Passenger promises an unforgettable performance with his folk-rock melodies.

Entry: €26

Date & Time: 22 October 2023, 8 pm

Address: Gagarin, 201 Liosion Avenue, 10445

Tickets: more.com

Wine and Art Festival 2023

The largest wine and art festival in Greece returns this weekend, at the School of Fine Arts in Athens, with an impressive list of wineries and artworks from Athens School of Fine Arts. You will have the opportunity to taste more than 500 wines from 65 Boutique Wineries as well as take part in a range of workshops, and seminars and enjoy performances and music played by local DJs.

Entry: €12

Date: 21 October 2023 – 22 October 2023

Address: Athens School of Fine Arts, 256 Pireos, Agios Ioannis Rentis

Website: wineandartfestival.gr

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What’s on in Athens This Week: October 9

The first tree leaves may be falling and the weather may be getting colder – but Athens’ cultural scene is on fire! The first week of October finds the capital with plenty of great events taking place and we’ve rounded them all up for you.

Book as Art

Exciting news for art lovers in Athens! The Gramma Epsilon Gallery is hosting the Books as Art exhibition, curated by Paolo Cortese and supported by the Italian Institute of Culture. Featuring works by over 30 international artists, this group exhibition challenges our perception of what a “book” can be. Don’t miss the chance to see works dating back to the 1960s alongside contemporary pieces- from conceptual to fibre art, the three-dimensional pieces on display explore the diverse possibilities of books as a means of artistic expression.

Entry: Free

Date & Time: 1-20 October, Thursday-Saturday

Αddress: Gramma Epsilon Gallery, 6 Agathonos, Monastiraki

Oedipus in Search of Colonus

This radical VR installation by Loukia Alavanou, who represented Greece at the 59th Venice Art Biennale, will be shown for the first time at Onassis Stegi. A 15-minute film, shot with 360° VR technology and members of the Roma community from Nea Zoi in Aspropyrgos of Western Attica, in the roles of a cast of actors who follow in the traces of Oedipus. As the creator underlines, this installation aims to evoke questions around the themes of aging and death, human dignity and universal freedom, immigration, displacement, minorities, racism, and human rights.

Entry: 8 €

Date & Time: 11-30 October 2023, Wednesday-Sunday 6 pm-11 pm

Address: Onassis Stegi, 107-109 Syggrou Avenue, Neos Kosmos

Website: Onassis.org

Tickets: ticket.onassis.org

Pytheas Travels

“Pytheas Travels” is a staged audiovisual simulation highlighting the experience of being on a passenger ship, travelling from the Mediterranean to the seas of Scandinavia. It is a maritime story, a fictional journey and a critical look at the mass tourism industry and its effects on environmental, cultural and social structures. Accompanied by music from pioneering Norwegian composer and performer Maja Solveig Kjelstrup Ratkje, it’s inspired by the historical journey of Pytheas, who in 325 BC sailed north from Marseilles to a place he called Ultima Thule, the mythical island, to reach the “frozen seas.”

Entry: 5-24 €

Date & Time: 13-15 October 2023, Friday-Sunday 8.30 pm

Address: Onassis Stegi, 107-109 Syggrou Avenue, Neos Kosmos

Website: Onassis.org

Tickets: ticket.onassis.org

I Puritani

This year’s 100th anniversary of the birth of the greatest Greek soprano of all time is just one more reason to fill Athens with dedicated events in her honour. At the Olympia Municipal Theater- where Maria Callas started her career back in 1944 – the famous opera “I Puritani”, a performance that marked her rise to stardom will be performed this week. The special event is presented by the City of Athens Choir, the Athens State Orchestra, and the stunning soprano Christina Poulitsi and American tenor John Osborn are found in the leading roles.

Entry: 5-40 €

Date & Time: 14 October, 8 pm

Tickets: ticketservices.gr

Αddress: Olympia Municipal Music Theater Maria Callas, 59 Akadimias Historic Center

Meet Market

If you love searching for special items to decorate your home, or love accessories for yourself or as special gifts – we’ve found a great place for you to visit during your stay in Athens. The Meet Market is a nomadic spot filled with innovation and creativity- featuring locally made clothes, jewelry, accessories, care & wellness products, art & decor, baby items, delicious treats, vintage collectibles, street food – plus a bunch of interactive games, DJ sets & good vibes.

Entry: Free

Date & Time: 14-15 October 2023, 12 am to 12 pm

Address: Peiraios 100, Athens, cultural venue of “Technopolis”

Website: themeetmarket.gr

Athens Cocktails Party

If you would like to taste some of the finest cocktails – created by Athens’ leading mixologists from some of the best bars in the Greek capital – head to Kypseli Municipal Market this weekend. The cool event is the brainchild of George Apergis, founder of local electronic music collective Modular Expansion, so you can rest assured there will be plenty of great tunes to listen to as you sip on your favourite drink.

Tickets: Free admission

Date: 14 October 2023

Time: 3 pm – 11.30 pm

Address: Kypseli Municipal Market, 42 Fokionos Negri, Kypseli

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Ultimate Events Guide to Athens in October

Discover the best events taking place in Athens during the month of October.

As autumn sets in, Athens comes alive with a variety of cultural events to relish. From open-air music concerts under the starry sky to marvelous art exhibitions and festivals, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Embrace the season and immerse yourself in the cultural richness with our top picks for this month.

Vegan Life Festival Athens 2023

Europe’s most popular vegan festival is back! Since 2016, Vegan Life Festival has been drawing crowds from all over the continent. With two days packed with exciting stuff- you’ll have the opportunity to attend hands-on cooking workshops, insightful panels, a vegan products bazaar, live music, and even a speed dating event for a chance to make some new pals who share your passion for cruelty-free eats. But Vegan Life Festival isn’t just about having a good time – the organisation also has a strong focus on animal rights and initiatives that collect food for those in need.

Entry: Free

Date & Time: 1 October, 11 am- 11pm

Αddress: Peiraios 100, Athens, cultural venue of “Technopolis”

“Drive Your Plow Over the Bones of the Dead”

This theatrical play is part crime, part thriller and part comedy. The new production of the iconic Complicité theatre group is based on the multi-translated novel by Nobel Prize for Literature laureate Olga Tokarczuk. Created and directed by Simon McBurney, it questions why is the killing of animals a sport and a hobby and that of humans a murder. A thought-provoking, wry, and otherworldly murder mystery tale about the cosmos, poetry, and the limitations and possibilities of activism has audiences captivated. The performance is in English with Greek surtitles.

Entry: €10-€60

Date 4-7 October, Wednesday-Friday 8.30 pm, Saturday 2.30 pm & 8.30 pm

Tickets: tickets.onassis.org

Αddress: Onassis Stegi 107-109 Syggrou Avenue 1745 Athens, Greece

Website: onassis.org

Seong-Jin Cho at the Athens Concert Hall

For the talented Seong-Jin Cho, winning the XVII International Chopin Piano Competition most important piano competition in the world – was just the springboard to begin his brilliant career, gaining global fame and becoming the first pianist from his country to do so. The South Korean classical pianist begins another new season at the Athens Concert Hall for a highly acclaimed solo recital that is dominated by two benchmark works of the piano repertoire: Ravel’s imposing Miroirs and Liszt’s explosive Dante Fantasia.

Entry: Ticket prices: €11 – €60

Date & Time: 25 October, 8.30 pm

Address: The Athens Concert Hall (Megaron), 115 Vasilissis Sofias Avenue, Athens, 115 21

Website: megaron.gr

Lady Macbeth of Mtsensk Dmitri Shostakovich

The Greek National Opera is bringing back one of the most outstanding productions to have graced its stage in recent years. Lady Macbeth of Mtsensk, an iconic opera of the 20th century and a breathtaking Dmitri Shostakovich masterpiece– is returning to the Stavros Niarchos Hall this month. Conducting is Fabrizio Ventura, while the production’s staging is by Fanny Ardant, working with an all-star international creative team. This timeless masterpiece distinctly sets itself apart as it tackles the place of women within pre-revolutionary rural Russia and captures the audience from start to finish.

Entry: €10-€90

Date 21, 24, 27, 31 October, Performance times: 7.30 pm, Sunday 6.30 pm

Tickets: ticketservice.gr

Αddress: Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center, Syggrou Avenue 364, 17674 Kallithea

Website: nationalopera.gr

Homecoming | Cycladic treasures on their return journey

The highly anticipated exhibition “Homecoming. Cycladic treasures on their return journey” will include a display of 15 antiquities for the first time worldwide. Presented by the Museum of Cycladic Art in collaboration with the Hellenic Ministry of Culture and Sports and this is the first step of the historic agreement between the Ministry of Culture and Sports, the Museum of Cycladic Art and The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York (The Met), that foresees the gradual return to Greece of 161 Early Cycladic antiquities of the unique archaeological value of the American collector Leonard Stern. Following this, the entire collection will be exhibited at The Met, before the final return of the entirety of these antiquities to Greece.

Entry: €6

Date & Time: 1-31 October, daily except Tuesdays

Tickets: cycladic.gr

Αddress: Stathatos Mansion Vasilissis Sofias ave. & 1, Irodotou str., Athens

Website: cycladic.gr

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Acropolis Museum is Celebrating its 13th Birthday Today

To celebrate its 13th birthday today, Monday 20 June 2022, the Acropolis Museum is inviting visitors to its exhibition areas with reduced tickets (5 euro), a live concert and the opening of a wonderful new exhibition.

The Museum will be open from 8 am to 4 pm today with reduced tickets to all exhibition areas, and at 3 pm, visitors will have the opportunity to enjoy music by the Woodwind Quintet of the Athens State Orchestra.

Insights Greece - Acropolis Museum is Celebrating its 13th Birthday Today — Image by the Acropolis Museum

From today until January 8, 2023 the Acropolis Museum will present the exhibition program “Ton Athinithen athlon. Panathenaic amphorae from Toronto, Canada back to their birthplace”, with two exquisite vessels created in Athens over 2,500 years ago. They are Panathenaic amphorae, vessels filled with oil that was given as a prize to the victors of contests held during the festival of the Great Panathenaia. One side is decorated with the figure of Athena Promachos and the other with scenes related to the games for which they were given as prizes.

The two vessels from the Royal Ontario Museum will be exhibited in the Parthenon Gallery, relating to the great temple’s frieze, where Pheidias and his collaborators artfully carved the Panathenaic procession.

This presentation is an event taking place simultaneously with the presentation “From Athens to Toronto: A Greek Masterpiece Revealed” at the Royal Ontario Museum where the Acropolis Kore 670 is on display from March 2022. The event has been organised as part of cultural exchanges between the Acropolis Museum and other great museums abroad, contributing to the enhancement of friendly relations between the people of different countries.

For more details head to The Acropolis Museum

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