Picture Athens shimmering with holiday lights and filled with joy from November 28, 2024, to January 10, 2025. Athens’ Christmas is a city-wide celebration that brings people together through music, storytelling, art, and fun-filled activities. Being a local or a visitor, Athens promises a season where every day is a new chance to make memories and share in the festive spirit.
Storytime in the Heart of the City
From December 21, 2024, to January 5, 2025, seven city squares transform into cozy hubs of imagination and wonder. Gather around for heartwarming tales read by famous artists and athletes, or settle in for a moment of quiet reading in special holiday tents. With carols and live music from the Philharmonic Orchestra, the atmosphere will be pure Christmas magic.
Hands-On Holiday Fun for the Whole Family
Step into the holiday spirit with family-friendly workshops and activities that are all about creativity and play. Make your own decorations, bake festive treats, or try your hand at crafts like puppet-making and boat decorating. Explore markets filled with unique gift ideas and have fun with face painting and bubble shows — there’s no shortage of cheerful experiences for all ages.
Singing, Dancing, and Musical Magic
From December 24 to 26, Syntagma Square becomes the heartbeat of Christmas cheer with live performances from top Greek artists, including Panos Mouzourakis and Idra Kayne. The city’s Philharmonic Orchestra will fill the air with holiday favorites, while the Maria Callas Museum and other cultural spots offer intimate music events to warm your heart. Don’t miss the dazzling show at the Olympia Theater featuring operettas, jazz, and beloved Broadway hits.
Credits: Municipality of Athens
Movies Under the Stars
Make the holidays extra special with outdoor movie nights from December 27-30. Cozy up and watch festive films in iconic locations like the Athens Book Space and the Metropolis of Athens, or enjoy a magical drive-in experience with the city’s Christmas lights as your backdrop. It’s cinema and holiday cheer all wrapped into one unforgettable experience.
Festive Plays, Exhibits, and Guided Tours
Bring the whole family to theater performances like The Nutcracker or Night of Miracles, where kids can enter a world of imagination and joy. Museums will be bustling with guided tours and exhibits that celebrate creativity and tradition, including the PLAY TOY show exploring the connection between humans and play, and the Aesthetic Chromatology exhibit bringing art and sustainability together.
The Longest Night of the Year: December 21
Celebrate the winter solstice with live performances at ten different stages around the city. From classical ensembles in the Olympia Theater to lively DJ sets in vibrant neighborhoods, this is an evening packed with music, art, and plenty of good vibes.
Credits: Municipality of Athens
Christmas Eve Magic: The Night of Wishes
On December 24, make a wish and watch as biodegradable lanterns light up Kotzia Square. Join the community as they fill the sky with hopes and dreams, while the Athens 9.84 radio van plays festive tunes to set the mood.
Ring in the New Year with a Musical Time Machine
Syntagma Square will come alive with the “Terrace of Phoebus” event on New Year’s Eve, bringing together singers and stars for a celebration that takes you through the history of Athens from 1945 to 2025. From the Philharmonic Orchestra’s opening notes to songs, dances, and playful skits, this is one night you will wish to re-create.
And the best part? Most of these amazing events are free. Dive into the festive mood of Athens and make this holiday season one for the books!
Check out more at Culture is Athens and here.
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