Christmas Tree Lights Up at Syntagma Square, Holiday Season Begins in Athens

Athens’ Christmas tree was lit up on Syntagma Square on Thursday, signaling the start of the holiday season in the Greek capital.

Set up by the Municipality of Athens, the tree is 17 meters tall, features 24,000 LED lights and was shipped from Karpenisi, central Greece.

Accompanied by hundreds of residents and visitors outgoing mayor Kostas Bakoyannis gave the signal for the tree lighting and rang in the holiday season.

From the stage set up on Syntagma Square, Bakoyiannis, said: “I wish health and love for all… And since Christmas is the children’s holiday, let’s celebrate our children! The best are yet to come. Happy holidays everyone!”

The tree-lighting event kicked off with a concert hosted by TV presenters Nancy Zampetoglou and Thanasis Anagnostopoulos. Headliners Doros Dimosthenous and Pennys Baltatzi, together with Athens Big Band, performed festive tunes and favorite Christmas carols, setting the tone for the city’s series of events that will run throughout the holiday season.

From December 1 until January 7, 2024, the city’s cultural venues, museums, libraries, squares, streets and neighborhoods will be filled with Christmas cheer.

“During the most festive time of the year, Athens is more beautiful than ever,” the Municipality of Athens said in an announcement.

The detailed program of the municipality’s “Christmas in Athens” 2023 program will be announced soon on www.cultureisathens.gr.