Athens City Festival Draws 350,000 Visitors to Over 300 Events

Agia Fanfara Orchestra. Photo source: Athens Festival

The Municipality of Athens’ “This is Athens – City Festival” spring celebrations drew 350,000 visitors to over 300 exciting events, many showcasing the rich Athenian culture and timeless Greek traditions.

In its third edition, the festival, an initiative by the Athens Development and Destination Management Agency (ADDMA), highlighted Athens’ landmarks through events, concerts, outdoor activities, parties, gastronomy sessions, and walking tours.

“We are very happy that the 3rd This is Athens – City Festival spread from one part of the city to the other, illuminating even the most ‘unseen’ sides of the city,” said Athens Mayor Haris Doukas.

Highlights

Greek paniyiri in the park of Plato’s Academy. Photo source: Athens Festival

From Elpida Square in Petralona to Bay Park in Neos Kosmos, and from Attiki Square to Agios Panteleimonas, the Athens City Festival filled every part of the city with music and festive events. Athenians and visitors participated in celebrations held in squares, pedestrian streets, parks, and public markets.

Event highlights included:

– Agia Fanfara: The 25-member brass and wind orchestra captivated the audience with its blend of traditional vibes and contemporary songs on a musical route from Attica Square to Agios Panteleimon.

– Authentic Greek paniyiri: Held in the park of Plato’s Academy, the outdoor festival took over 5,000 participants on a journey through the musical paths of Greek tradition.

– Evritiki Zygia: An impressive band from Thrace that played traditional music with a contemporary twist. More than 4,000 people gathered at the National Archaeological Museum to dance to the band’s rhythms.

National Museum of Contemporary Art musical event. Photo source: Athens Festival

– Lubomyr Melnyk: Against the backdrop of the Roman Agora, the Ukrainian artist, one of the fastest pianists in the world, showcased his unsurpassed talent and mastery, offering attendees an unforgettable musical experience.

– Billie Kark and Alkyone: Two talented singers and songwriters combined Greek tradition with techno music during a special concert at Dexamenis Square in Kolonaki.

– Celebration with &ME: Thousands danced to the music of &ME, the mastermind behind some of the biggest dance hits in recent years, on the pedestrian street of Ermou.

– Nighttime Experience: In collaboration with the National Museum of Contemporary Art (EMST), the festival’s organizer held a music event on the restaurant’s terrace, accompanied by music from Voice Radio producers.

Photo source: Athens Festival

According to the municipality, more than 675 institutions, companies, and organizations supported the festival. Additionally, 29 Athenian museums opened their doors to the public, hosting unique cultural events and walking tours, while 196 Greek and foreign artists entertained the public.

“This year’s festival proved that determination, systematic work, and excellent organization can bring the best results,” said ADDMA CEO Ioannis Georgizas.